Qualatex produce a variety of natural latex-based balloon products. Are Qualatex balloons biodegradable and sustainable? We find out in this article.
What is Qualatex?
Qualatex is a company that manufacture balloons across North America. Rather than plastic, Qualatex use natural latex rubber to make their balloons.
Is Qualatex Biodegradable?
Yes, Qualatex balloons are biodegradable.
As Qualatex products are made from natural latex, they will biodegrade over time. Most pure latex balloons are biodegradable and photodegradable. When you see a clear balloon start to “fog” when exposed to the sun, you are seeing it beginning to oxidize and photodegrade. The rate of degradation varies because it’s influenced by several factors such as temperature, the amount of light exposure and the presence of latex consuming microbes.
Qualatex balloons should not be released and allowed to float away and should always be disposed of responsibly to avoid littering the environment.
The plastic ribbon attached to each balloon is not biodegradable and should be recycled or disposed of in the trash.
Is Qualatex Eco friendly?
Latex is a natural product that is extracted from rubber trees.
Its sustainability varies based on how the rubber is farmed. Sustainable rubber plantations have a low environmental impact but some plantations cause more harm due to the farming methods used and the scale of the farming operation.
In some countries, millions of acres of rainforest have been converted into rubber and latex plantations which has had a detrimental impact on local biodiversity.
Conclusion
Qualatex is biodegradable but these balloons should never be released into the atmosphere. Always discard your used balloons by disposing of them in the trash or by taking them to a recycling centre.
