Natural latex foam is tapped from the rubber tree in a method similar to how maple trees are tapped for syrup so it is environmentally friendly and biodegradable. It is the perfect choice for allergy sufferers as it is anti-microbial and hypo-allergenic. It also inhibits the growth and spread of mildew, fungi and bacteria. An additional benefit to consumers is that it does not break down or set so cushions and mattresses do not need to be turned or flipped (it has a memory).
Regular foam (including Dacron) is a petroleum based product and is therefore from a non-renewable resource and not biodegradable.
Beware of latex foam that is not ‘100% natural latex’. The latex widely available in the market is typically extended with petro-chemical fillers which make it more chemical based than latex based. Only 100% natural latex is environmentally friendly and biodegradable. Many ‘green’ companies today are using the widely available latex and calling it ‘green’. It still has the benefits of being anti-microbial and hypo-allergenic but it is not genuinely green. 100% natural latex foam is much more costly and is only offered by a few suppliers.
