Biodegradable is defined as “a material that is capable of undergoing biological degradation by action of living organisms, especially oxidation or disintegration.” The most common materials used for creating organic confetti are paper and plant tissue. Since both these materials can easily biodegrade when they are exposed to microorganisms, it is safe to say that the confetti inside of a confetti cannon are actually biodegradable.
A confetti cannon is a device that shoots either paper or plastic pellets into the air to create colourful patterns or designs. The contents inside a confetti cannon vary depending on which one you purchase but often include tissue paper and/or metallic colours . Some shells, cartridges, and tubes even use plant cellulose as an ingredient so if you’re planning on using them outdoors be sure to check the label before buying.
Are confetti cannons biodegradable?
Yes, most modern confetti cannons are biodegradable, but it is important to check the cartridges/shells of the devices you are using because not all are. It can take anywhere from 3 months up to over a year for recycled paper products like the ones used in today’s confetti cannons to decompose. Decomposition of biodegradable confetti occurs more quickly during hotter months and less quickly during colder months, as well as in more humid/moist areas compared to more arid areas. There is a small amount of metal used in most modern-day shells or cartridges, particularly a small black powder charge that propels the confetti into the air as well as a wedding that helps hold the paper together, but this metal is inert and does not pose a risk to human health or the environment.
There are many different types of confetti cannons out there. Some shells, cartridges, and tubes use a large number of different tissue types (some even featuring metallic colors) with plant cellulose being one option. Others feature mostly synthetic materials made from plastic or polystyrene foam — not all of these metals will biodegrade which means most gender reveal kits most likely won’t typically be biodegradable.
What is the best type of confetti to use in a confetti cannon?
The best confetti to use in a confetti cannon depends on the type of event you are celebrating. For example, if you are planning an outdoor celebration or party it is important to make sure that your confetti will not turn into sharp pieces when wet.
There is still some debate as to whether or not metallic colors in paper-based confetti are more hazardous than other types of synthetic materials like plastic and polystyrene foam. If you decide that using organic (plant based) tissue paper with metallic colors in your confetti cannons sounds like the safest option for your party or celebration, be sure to check out our blog posts about choosing eco-friendly wedding supplies and choosing eco-friendly party supplies .
Are there different types of confetti cannons?
Yes, there are many different types of confetti cannons out there. Some shells, cartridges, and tubes use a large number of different tissue types (some even featuring metallic colors) with plant cellulose being one option. Others feature mostly synthetic materials made from plastic or polystyrene foam — not all of these metals will biodegrade which means most gender reveal kits most likely won’t typically be biodegradable .
How long does it take for biodegradable confetti to decompose?
Biodegradable materials will typically break down in anywhere from 3 months up to 2 years depending on factors like sunlight exposure, moisture levels, and waste levels present. It can take longer if these conditions are not met during continuous periods of time.
Are gender reveal confetti cannons biodegradable?
It depends on which product you choose; not all release metallic colors that degrade easily or at all when exposed to water or microorganisms. Some products even use plastic and polystyrene foam as opposed to organic (plant-based) tissue paper .
The best confetti cannon: Celebration Confetti Cannons
One of the most important things to consider when choosing a confetti cannon is how the cartridge and shell (or tube) will be disposed of. A new product on the market features a fully reusable plastic shell made from recycled plastic water bottles and plant fibers with organic tissue paper inside. The cartridges can also be filled with different materials like shredded paper or coloured glitters . This means you can use biodegradable glitter (and even 100% recycled/recyclable materials if desired) for an eco-friendly option that’s still fun!
Is there such a thing as biodegradable confetti?
Yes, the contents inside a confetti cannon (which includes tissue paper and metallic colors) can be made from organic (plant-based) ingredients and/or biodegradable glitter .
What is the best confetti cannon?
The best type of confetti cannons depend on the type of event you’re celebrating. If you plan on using them outdoors or in wet conditions, you may want to choose a more eco-friendly option with biodegradable glitter or paper. If it’s indoors, recycled plastics and organic tissues are both good choices for the materials used in the confetti cannons. It all boils down to what type of disposable products you can support!
Summary: Biodegradability is not only dependent on the materials used in each individual product, but also how long it takes for them to decompose under certain conditions. If you plan on using your confetti cannons outdoors or in wet conditions, you may want to choose a more eco-friendly version with environmental glitter or recycled plastic instead of plant cellulose.
