Festive season means balloons, and balloon releases are on the rise again. But with increasing evidence suggesting that balloons impact the environment and marine life, there are more eco-friendly alternatives than ever before.
Why Balloon Releases Should Be Banned?
- It’s LitteringWhile balloon releases may seem like a harmless way to celebrate a special occasion, the reality is that the balloons end up as litter. According to Keep America Beautiful, balloons are the second most common type of litter found on beaches, behind cigarette butts. This litter not only looks unsightly but can also be harmful to wildlife.2. Balloons Are Harmful to Wildlife
When animals mistake deflated balloons for food, it can cause them to choke or starve to death. In addition, the ribbon or string attached to balloons can entangle and kill animals. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration estimate that more than 100,000 marine mammals and birds die each year from ingesting or getting tangled in marine debris, including balloons.
3. There’s a Helium Shortage
Helium is a finite resource – meaning it will eventually run out. In fact, experts believe that global supplies of helium could be depleted within 50 years. So, by releasing helium-filled balloons into the atmosphere, we’re not just harming animals and contributing to litter; we’re also wasting a valuable resource.
What Are Balloons Made of?
Latex Mylar balloons are made of a thin, stretchy film. This material is often used to make party balloons because it can be blown up to a large size and holds its shape well. The downside of latex Mylar balloons is that they can pop easily and deflate quickly.
What to Do Instead of a Balloon Release?
It’s no secret that balloon releases are harmful to the environment. The balloons eventually pop and fall back to earth, where they become litter. Wildlife can mistake the balloons for food and eat them, which can be fatal.
So what can you do instead of a balloon release? Here are some environmentally-friendly ideas:
Flying Wish Papers: Write your wishes on paper and let them fly away. You can even make your own wish papers using biodegradable materials.
Floating Flowers: Create a floating garden by releasing flowers into a body of water. The flowers will eventually sink, but they’ll provide food and habitat for aquatic creatures while they’re afloat.
Seedballs: Throw seed balls into an area that needs more trees or plants. The seed balls will break open and allow the seeds to germinate, leading to new growth.
Plant a Tree: Planting a tree is a great way to offset your carbon footprint. Trees help clean the air and provide homes for wildlife.
Biodegradable Balloons
Balloons are often used for celebrations, parties, and special events. But after the party is over, the balloons end up as litter. They can take years to decompose and cause problems for wildlife.
Biodegradable balloons are made from materials that break down naturally. They are a better choice for the environment because they don’t last as long in landfills.
If you’re planning a party or event, consider using biodegradable balloons. They’re just as fun as regular balloons, but they won’t stick around in the environment for years to come.
What About Water Balloons?
Water balloons are an excellent eco-friendly alternative to plastic or traditional latex or mylar balloons. They are made from natural materials and are completely biodegradable. Water balloons are also non-toxic, making them safe for both children and animals.
8 Eco-friendly Alternatives to Balloons
When it comes to celebrating special occasions, many of us default to using balloons as decorations. But did you know that balloons are actually quite harmful to the environment? They are made from latex, which is a natural resource that takes years to grow and harvest. Once they are used, they often end up in landfills where they take years to decompose.
Fortunately, there are plenty of eco-friendly alternatives to balloons that can help you celebrate without harming the planet. Here are a few of our favorites:
1. Bunting and Banners
Bunting and banners are a great eco-friendly alternative to balloons. They can be made from recycled materials and can be reused over and over again.
- Paper Chains or Garlands
Paper chains or garlands are another great option. They can also be made from recycled materials and are a fun way to decorate your home or office.
- Streamers
Streamers are another eco-friendly option that can be made from recycled paper or fabric. They add a festive touch to any event and can be reused over and over again.
- Paper flowers
Paper flowers are a beautiful eco-friendly alternative to balloons. They can be made from recycled paper or fabric and are a great way to decorate your home or office.
- Pompoms
Pompoms are an eco-friendly and fun alternative to balloons. They can be made from recycled materials, such as old t-shirts, and can be reused over and over again.
- Pinwheels
Pinwheels are another great eco-friendly alternative to balloons. They can be made from recycled paper or cardboard, and they spin in the wind, making them fun for kids of all ages.
- Bubbles
Bubbles are a great eco-friendly alternative to balloons because they are completely biodegradable. Plus, they are lots of fun for kids to chase around!
8. Kites
Kites are an excellent eco-friendly alternative to balloons because they can be made from recycled materials and they fly high in the sky.
What Are the Issues with Traditional Balloons?
Traditional balloons are made of latex, which is a natural material derived from rubber trees. However, latex production is not sustainable and has a negative environmental impact.
Latex production requires large amounts of water and energy, and generates significant greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, the harvesting of latex from rubber trees can damage the environment and cause harm to local communities.
Traditional balloons are also often made with harmful chemicals, such as phthalates and chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). These chemicals can be released into the atmosphere when the balloons are popped or deflated, posing a risk to human health and the environment.
Finally, traditional balloons are a major source of litter. They often end up in landfills or as roadside litter, where they can take years to degrade.
Conclusion
There are so many great eco-friendly balloon alternatives available now, and we hope this list has helped you find the perfect option for your next party or event. Whether you want to use biodegradable balloons, reusable balloons, or something else entirely, there are plenty of options to choose from.