How Can the Inflatable and Bouncy Castle Sector Be More Eco-Friendly?
Almost half of all people in the UK are seeking to spend their money on eco-friendly products, a recent survey conducted by Globaldata found. Indeed, around the same amount take green practices into account when parting with their money in any way. The interest in reducing one’s carbon footprint and doing one’s share for a better world has the potential to affect a purchaser’s choice of entertainment — including the rental of inflatables such as bouncy castles for birthdays and other celebrations.
Upcycling Plastic Waste
One of the biggest worries about inflatables is what to do when they are punctured or no longer in use? A fine example of how everything old can be new again can be found in Wyatt and Jack — an Isle of Wight-based company that manufactures sustainable bags and accessories from unwanted bouncy castles and inflatables. The company began with a kickstarter appeal, increasing the number of drop-off points across the globe for unwanted inflatables as the months went by. The business continues to grow, demonstrating the fact that sustainability and profit are far from being mutually exclusive concepts.
Why is Recycling so Important?
The BBC reports that plastic inflatables (such as those used to float in the sea or ocean) are often abandoned on the beach simply because people don’t know what to do with them. When inflatables get into the sea they break down and can harm marine animals that get entangled in them or eat them. Many items also end up in landfills, where they accumulate year on year. It is therefore important to take items that are no longer in use to companies that can recycle and reuse them for new products.
Green Cleaning
Bouncy castles and other inflatables can have a lifespan of various years if they are well taken care of and cleaned regularly. Those who rent out inflatables or otherwise use them for their business proceedings can ensure they use sustainable methods to keep items clean These include the use of dry steam (which has a high pressure and can clean stubborn spots), a reduction in the reliance on harsh and toxic cleaning products
Making Inflatables Sturdier
One excellent way to reduce waste in the inflatables industry is to make better, sturdier items that will stand the test of time and not puncture with the slightest scratch or pressure. Companies like Grabner are leading the way in this respect, manufacturing high-quality inflatable boats made of renewable rubber. The lifespan of these boats is very long compared to standard inflatable boats, as they last between 25 and 30 years. Best of all, all items are 100% recyclable.
The Inflatable and bouncy castle industry can do plenty to be more eco-friendly. Steps to take include upcycling unwanted pieces, ensuring they don’t make their way into the sea, and manufacturing sturdier items that last for decades. Green cleaning, meanwhile, can help keep items in good shape while lowering the amount of toxins released into the air. The main aim should be to stop inflatables from winding up in landfills; new life should be given to each item whenever possible.
Article kindly written by Cassie Leonard 28-9-2020.
