Anytime we release a balloon into the air, whether it is intentional or not, it will eventually fall back to Earth as pollution. This includes balloons made from “biodegradable” latex. Balloons kill countless animals, cause dangerous power outages, and even fires. Once released, balloons can travel thousands of miles before landing, usually ending up in the ocean.
According to a study conducted by the University of Texas Marine Science Institute, 5 percent of the dead sea turtles found in the Gulf of Mexico had ingested latex balloons.
The Entanglement Network estimates that over 100,000 marine mammals are killed each year from plastic entanglement or ingestion (NY Times).
One easy way to celebrate without plastic pollution is to make your own confetti. You can simply use flower petals, OR using a hole puncher, you can make little confetti pieces out of leaves you find around your home.
Who doesn’t love being hit in the face with nature?
DIY Leaf Confetti Tutorial:
Bottom Line:
Releasing balloons is littering. There’s no way around it. Even water balloons.
Photo by: https://unsplash.com/@elmundoderabbit
BALLOON RELEASE BANS:
States that currently have laws against balloon release:
- California
- Connecticut
- Florida
- Tennessee
- Virginia.
Moreover, the state of Florida does not recognize ANY balloon as biodegradable. Because let’s face it, they’re not.
Same!
More Resources:
BALLOONS POSE A RISK TO WILDLIFE & THE ENVIRONMENT
THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF BALLOON RELEASES AND SUGGESTIONS FOR ECO-FRIENDLY ALTERNATIVES
Photos: unsplash.com
Zero Waste California 