At B-Loony, we’re proud to supply natural rubber balloons made from natural rubber latex, a renewable material harvested from rubber trees. Unlike synthetic plastics, natural latex is bio-based, making it a more environmentally responsible choice.

Plastic-Free

Rubber balloons are made from renewable Natural Rubber Latex (NRL), which is obtained from Hevea Brasiliensis, the Pará rubber trees that are grown in certain areas of the tropics. NRL is scientifically described as elastomeric rubber, which has distinct physical and chemical properties from plastic.
Once collected, NRL is dyed with natural pigments to create a range of colours. Balloon moulds are then dipped into vats of liquid natural rubber before passing through a tunnel of hot air which triggers the vulcanisation process. The balloons are then removed from the moulds with a jet of air, washed and dried.
Throughout the manufacturing process, the polymer itself is not modified in any way, in other words, the rubber latex, as a natural polymer, is preserved.

Decomposition

All rubber balloons supplied by B-Loony Ltd are made from Natural Rubber Latex (NRL). Decomposition starts to a certain extent from the moment a balloon is manufactured but is rapidly accelerated when the balloon is inflated and exposed to sunlight and oxygen. This process of decay causes the balloon to oxidise, which begins within approximately one hour of inflation and is visible in some types of balloons as a cloudy appearance.

Scientific studies show that vulcanised natural rubber latex balloons begin to degrade in soil environments within months, with progressive breakdown continuing over time. This means that although the process is slower than for non-vulcanised latex, degradation is measurable within the first year.
Importantly:
  • Natural rubber latex balloons do not release microplastics.
  • They outperform plastic-based alternatives in terms of environmental impact.
  • They are made from a renewable resource.

More information: Independent lab test

Sustainable & Renewable

Rubber trees are not cut down to produce NRL. The NRL used in the production of balloons supplied by B-Loony Ltd is obtained by tapping from mature trees which provides employment for many agricultural workers in some of the poorest areas of the world.
Because of NRL cultivation within sustainably managed forests and the consumption of rubber products, the maintenance of rubber tree plantations helps towards the prevention of tropical rainforest deforestation. Responsibly managed forests contribute significantly to the removal of greenhouse gasses from the atmosphere that are produced by industrialised nations and are a major source of global warming. B-Loony is can also supply balloons which are FSC™ Certified.

Responsible Use

B-Loony Ltd are proud members of the EBPC (European Balloon & Party Association), and thus follow a strict code of conduct to ensure a minimal impact on the environment.

Lighter than air (helium) balloons must not be released. They should be tightly secured with a weight and, when finished with, popped and disposed along with other domestic waste. We recommend that customers using balloons for promotion follow the same guidelines.

  • Avoid balloon releases.
  • Dispose of balloons properly after use.
  • Use balloon weights and ribbons to prevent accidental release.

More information: EBPC Guidelines

Toy Safety, Manufacturing & Safety Standards

Because balloons are considered a toy, they are subject to the same extensive tests and health and safety standards as any other product intended for use by a child. Therefore, appropriate safety warnings and recommendations are printed on all packaging. B-Loony Ltd is fully compliant with all toy safety legislation and regularly undergoes relevant assessment audits.
All our printed balloons comply with the EU Toy Safety Directive 2009/48/EC, and packaging includes appropriate choking hazard warnings and age recommendations.

BalloonGrip® Balloon Holders

We recommend that balloons for giveaways are always supplied air-inflated and tied to sustainable cardboard BalloonGrip® Balloon Holders.
Tying balloons to BalloonGrip® balloon holders provides a secure handle for the consumer and prevents balloons from being inadvertently released into the environment. BalloonGrip® balloon holders are made from PAP21 cardboard, a material which is PEFC certified, sustainable, and widely recycled, both  domestically and industrially.

Learn About BalloonGrip Balloon Holders

Our Ethical Commitment

It is through our commitment to ethical standards and the demands from our customers that we continuously invest in research and development, and as a result, B-Loony Ltd have established many eco-friendly and biodegradable products, several of which are unique in the marketplace.
B-Loony Ltd are a BPMA Charter member, an ISO:9001 and ISO:14001 company, SEDEX audited members and have certifications for the supply of FSC™ products and materials, demonstrating its commitment to the responsible management of the world’s forests.
As part of its commitment, B-Loony has also developed a sustainability program which is aligned with the UNSDG (United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals).