Scientists at Imperial College London claim to have invented the world's most eco-friendly balloon - and they're not just talking about the color! The team says they've created the world's first fully biodegradable balloon. Normal balloons can last for years and leave behind harmful chemicals. But the new balloon can biodegrade in just 9 months. Biodegradable things are those that can be reabsorbed and broken down by the environment. Some things can biodegrade naturally, like food and plants, while others can turn into harmful chemicals or gases. Everything we use and produce can be technically considered biodegradable, because everything will eventually break down. But some things can last much longer than others. Balloons and the strings attached to them can be harmful to marine life and the environment. The new balloon, called Bioloon, is not more expensive than regular balloons and is easier to inflate, according to scientists. The research was partly funded by party planner Charlotte Melia, who wanted to reduce the impact of balloon waste on wildlife and the environment. She says some balloons are labeled as 100% biodegradable, but don't actually break down completely. The new balloon uses a process that combines biodegradable materials without any additives. Did you know? Biodegradable things are those that can easily break down and be absorbed in nature. This is very important for the environment, because it can reduce waste and help nature renew itself. What does this mean for kids? This could be an opportunity for kids to think more about the environment and learn what they can do to protect nature. Kids can learn about the importance of biodegradable materials and encourage the use of eco-friendly products. What does this mean for the future? This discovery could be a big step for the environment. Biodegradable balloons could replace regular balloons and reduce pollution. Scientists can continue to develop more eco-friendly products, and kids can learn more about the environment and discover what they can do to protect it.