We have discussed glitter at some length over the years and agreed that even biodegradable glitter should not be at the Green Festival (nor biodegradable balloons). You may find this post from the Green Gathering of interest. It was written a few years ago, so the research may have changed. Shambala Festival takes a similar line, so we’ll also be following their deliberations with interest.
The glitter debate continues. Research by the Green Gathering suggests that a regular (plastic) glitter company has cornered the market on so-called biodegradable glitter, keeping any independent companies out of the game, with no apparent intention of reducing their continued sales of plastic glitter. The research into the actual environmental impact of biodegradable glitter is therefore tainted by the dominance of this major supplier.
Of course, regular glitter is a major environmental hazard and health risk because it consists of microplastics. It pollutes waterways, harms marine life, and causes severe eye injuries or infections.
So, whilst we recommend sparkling without glitter, we are happy to discuss other involvement by creative & artistic people, featuring many local arts and crafts.
See also the Green Festival Sustainability Criteria.
