Balloons may seem like a fun addition to birthday parties or weddings, but once they are released, they pose a great danger to wildlife. Land animals like bighorn sheep and owls as well as marine animals such as dolphins, turtles and birds mistake them for food or get tangled in the plastic string with deadly consequences. There are plenty of ways to celebrate while avoiding releasing balloons into the environment. Lara O’Brien with Blue Planet Global Impact at the University of Michigan makes these suggestions:
“Student groups or other organizations could plant native trees or flowers (in designated areas), fly kites, wave flags or banners, light candles, blow bubbles, create chalk drawings, paint murals, organize a community walk, run, or bike ride, or even do trail or river cleanups.
Any of these alternatives would help bring a community or group together to celebrate or commemorate a special occasion without causing harm to the environment or wildlife.
If you choose to organize or participate in an event where balloon alternatives are being used, please help to raise awareness by posting on social media and/or talking with family, friends, or colleagues. Help spread the message that while balloons are out, there are still plenty of fun, environmentally-friendly ways to celebrate.”
“Student groups or other organizations could plant native trees or flowers (in designated areas), fly kites, wave flags or banners, light candles, blow bubbles, create chalk drawings, paint murals, organize a community walk, run, or bike ride, or even do trail or river cleanups.
Any of these alternatives would help bring a community or group together to celebrate or commemorate a special occasion without causing harm to the environment or wildlife.
If you choose to organize or participate in an event where balloon alternatives are being used, please help to raise awareness by posting on social media and/or talking with family, friends, or colleagues. Help spread the message that while balloons are out, there are still plenty of fun, environmentally-friendly ways to celebrate.”
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