Throwing and catching gold, green, and purple beads is a cherished Mardi Gras tradition, but as it turns out, these petroleum-based plastic beads have a heavy impact on the New Orleans environment long after celebrations have ended.
Traditional Mardi Gras beads are produced from natural gas and oil-derived feedstock and take an estimated 500 years to decompose. And when they do, they release heavy metals and other toxins into the environment. According to Louisiana State University, they can even clog sewer systems across the city.