Latex and Rubber Trees

Professional quality balloons are  not plastic!  They are made from natural latex, which comes from the sap of rubber trees.  They  do not have extra fillers, so they break down naturally and are kind to the environment. We realize that this is a process that takes time, so we also recycle the balloons we STRIKE (pickup and pop at our location)   

No Balloon Releases

While balloons constitute less than 1% of all beach litter, we aim to reduce this figure even further. A simple yet effective measure is to avoid releasing balloons intentionally. Although watching balloons float into the sky might seem magical, they eventually descend as litter.  To further minimize balloon-related pollution, it's essential to dispose of or recycle balloons properly.

What is Helium?

Helium is a naturally occurring element that is mined with natural gas.    In it's purest form it is used in flat screens, MRIs and semi-conductors.  Balloon grade helium is the helium that is mixed with other elements, and only 97-98.5% pure.     It is taken off the top and would otherwise be released during the mining process for this valuable element.   The balloon industry accounts for approximately 3-4% of all helium use.    Helium is ABUNDANT and shortages are usually due to supply disruption.

Recycle

To recycle we return in the Terracycle zero waste box for party decorations, and this cost is included in your strike fees.      The latex is then sent out to make things such as

• Playground materials: Parts used in making safe playgrounds.
• Dog toys: Fun and safe toys for pets.
• Green fuel pellets:  these recycled materials are also converted into green fuel pellets designed to replace fossil fuels!

Foil balloons: professional brands often use recycled materials for the balloon numbers and pretty foils for your parties and come in packaging that has been sourced from recycled materials.   Over 40% of the materials to create Anagram balloons from have a recycled origin.   

Reuse

Our sustainable practices include offering reusable frames and backdrops, which significantly reduces the need for single-use decorations. Our extensive catalog of rentable props and decorative elements allows clients to explore diverse themes without contributing to landfill waste, as these items are consistently reused.​

To further promote sustainability, we have implemented a Column Base or Freestanding Garland Return Program, encouraging clients to return column bases post-event in exchange for credits toward future rentals. This initiative not only fosters eco-friendly practices but also rewards our clients for their participation.

We Are Part of C4RC

We are proud to be a member of the Coalition for Responsible Celebrations (C4RC). C4RC is a group that works with businesses and communities to promote smart, safe, and eco-friendly celebration practices. Being a part of C4RC means we follow strict guidelines to make sure our balloon decor doesn’t add to the litter problem that affects our environment.  Beyond reusing event materials, we are committed to comprehensive recycling efforts, ensuring that materials such as cardboard, paper, plastic, and metal are diverted from landfills and re-enter the production cycle.

The professional balloon brands we use: including sempertex, tuftex, and kalisan are also members of the C4RC, but not all brands are. 

Additional steps you can take

Make Your Party Decorations Last: Easy Ways to Reuse and Repurpose

plasticfreejuly.org+9elvamdesign.com+9cubbyathome.com+9

1. Choose Reusable Decorations

Instead of single-use items, pick decorations you can use again. For example, instead of plastic table covers, cloth tablecloths can be used for many events.  You can also use paper or eco friendly cutlery instead of plastic. 

2. Repurpose Party Items into Home Decor

After the party, think about how decorations can brighten up your home. For instance, a colorful garland can add charm to a bedroom or playroom. This way, items get a second life beyond the celebration. ​

4. Use Natural Elements

Decorate with items from nature, like flowers, leaves, or pinecones. These can be composted after the event, making cleanup eco-friendly. ​sanjoserecycles.org

5. Rent, Borrow or Share Decorations

Instead of buying new items, consider hiring a company that provides rentals to decorate, or borrowing decorations from friends or neighbors. Some communities even have shared party supplies, reducing the need for everyone to buy their own. ​ 

By rethinking how we use party decorations, we can enjoy celebrations while caring for the environment.

Together, these efforts ensure that every celebration we create is as kind to the environment as it is beautiful.  Choose eco-friendly balloons for your next party. Together, we can make celebrations safe for both people and the planet..

Want to help out? You can check out Zero Waste Boxes to learn how to recycle balloons and party supplies after your next event.