What happens to balloons that are released into the air?
95% of latex balloons that are released into the air rise to 28 000 feet, where the altitude and temperature cause the balloon to expand and shatter into tiny pieces, about the size of a 10-20 cent coin. These pieces fall to the ground over a large area, where they bio-degrade. The remaining 5% drift with wind currents for 8-14 hours before coming down, where they also decompose.
Latex balloons are made from 100% natural substance and will biodegrade at about the same rate as an oak leaf, given identical conditions. Balloons should not be confused with plastic. Latex is made from the sap of the rubber tree, a completely natural substance that breaks down in both sunlight and water. A helium balloon that has shattered at altitude will biodegrade much faster than a whole balloon in landfill.
Foil balloons are not biodegradable and can conduct electricity if they come into contact with overhead power lines. For this reason, foil balloons should be attached to a weight and never released.
What is the Environmental Impact of Manufacturing Balloons?
The demand for latex from the balloon industry actually ensures the survival of the rubber tree, and provides economic incentive for the planting of more trees, and in preventing deforestation. Harvesting latex can be more profitable to poor third word communities than raising cattle on the deforested land.
Can I Release Helium Balloons in NSW?
In NSW it is an offence to release 20 or more helium filled balloons at one time. It is also an offence for us to sell helium balloons to a customer with the knowledge that they will be used for release, therefore we endeavour to educate our clients on these laws.
Is there an Exception?
There are some exceptions to this law which include:
*Unintentional release.
*If the balloons are released indoors and do not make their way into open air.
*The balloons are being used in scientific purposes.
Can I Release Balloons at a Funeral?
Yes, you can. However, you must not release more than 20 helium balloons. If you must have ribbon attached, it can only be crepe streamer or raffia (paper based) so it will degrade and dissolve. No plastic clips or attachments can be used on the balloons. We don't encourage balloon releases of any size, but it is still possible if you follow the above guidelines for doing so legally. Another option is to release less than 20 balloons and give the additional balloons to the children for them to take home, instead of releasing the full amount of balloons ie 20+
What is the best way to dispose of my balloons when I've finished?
The best thing to do is pin it, and bin in. Once your event is over, we recommend bursting the left over balloons and throwing them away responsibly. This way, there is no chance that any left over balloons will escape into the air or get tangled in power lines, and there will be no balloon related litter to destroy the environment. You can even dispose of your balloons in your compost!
What are is your company doing to help?
The Party's Here works closely with the balloon industry both in Australia and internationally, to promote education and awareness to ensure that our balloons are handled safely and responsibly by consumers, as well as disposed of properly. We are NSW members of the Balloon Artists and Suppliers Association (BASA) who support the use of environmentally friendly biodegradable latex balloons. BASA and its' members are also working with local and state councils to educate them on balloons and the environment.
For more information please see the following websites:
http://www.balloonartists.com.au/environment.html
http://www.balloonartists.com.au/documents/bio.pdf
http://www.balloonhq.com/BalloonCouncil/facts.html
http://www.qualatex.com/pages/facts_fun.php
So now that you know the our balloons are 100% environmentally friendly, why not place your order today!? Give us a call, browse our website or pop into the store to check out all our balloon decorating options.
6 Padstow Pde, Padstow NSW
Ph: 02 9792 5403
Fx: 02 9792 5281
Ph: 02 9792 5403
Fx: 02 9792 5281
Email: info@thepartyshere.net.au
Web: www.thepartyshere.com.au
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ThePartysHere
