The Problem With Balloons

Balloons released outdoors often return as litter, polluting both marine and terrestrial environments. They are a significant cause of marine wildlife deaths and the leading cause of mortality among seabirds linked to plastic pollution. Similar to other plastic pollution items, an ingested balloon can block an animal’s digestive tract, causing the animal to slowly starve to death.

Even balloons marketed as biodegradable or natural can take years to break down, causing harm to wildlife in the meantime. Furthermore, ribbons attached to these balloons are generally not biodegradable and persist in the environment, causing tangling and strangulation hazards for wildlife.

The Solution

California already prohibits the intentional release of balloons (California Penal Code Section 653.1). In addition, a more recent law phases in safety requirements for foil (Mylar) balloons to reduce the risk of power outages and fires. Building on this, the Santa Cruz chapter is working to advance a local ordinance that would ban the sale, use, and distribution of balloons on public property and at county-sponsored events within the unincorporated areas of Santa Cruz County.

There are many ways to celebrate, remember, memorialize, or honor the special moments in our lives without using balloons. Some ideas to celebrate or honor loved ones include planting bulbs, trees, or seeds, floating flowers, paddling out, or convening in a special place or blowing bubbles. Every event that uses an alternative to balloons is a step toward protecting our environment and wildlife.

The Santa Cruz chapter is advocating for a county-wide ban on the sale, use, and release of all balloons.

Get Involved

Join our team and help us ban balloons in Santa Cruz county. Click here to join the policy committee.