Earth-Friendly Sky Lanterns and Balloons Alternatives

Balloons and sky lanterns make joyous celebrations like birthdays, weddings, and festivals more colorful, exciting, and social media-worthy. 

But what adds color and beauty to the sky can be dangerous to the lives of animals and the environment in general.

Balloon launches and sky lanterns can quickly become litter and take years to decompose. Recently, there are about 270 experts that rated balloons as one of the contributing threats to turtles, seabirds, fish, and other  marine life.

Microplastics from balloons when ingested caused 40% of deaths in seabirds according to the researchers at the University of Tasmania.

Even biodegradable balloons are not safe unless made of natural latex. The “biodegradable” balloons marketed are still made out of processed latex with chemicals and dyes taking years to fully decompose.

The same with sky lanterns, it takes decades for the bamboo to break down. Besides, sky lanterns can cause fires, injure animals, and create flight issues when sucked into an operating jet engine.

In the U.S, twenty-nine states have imposed restrictions on the use of sky lanterns. Countries in South America like Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, and Chile ban sky lanterns use the same with Germany, Spain, Austria, Australia, New Zealand, and Wales.

Green Alternatives

Celebrations can still be as fun and memorable like they used to even without balloon releases or sky lanterns. Instead, opt for these alternatives, which are as beautiful and as impressive.

Blowing Bubbles

Blowing bubbles is a cheap alternative yet as fun and floaty as balloons. You can have small, big bubbles, or mix and match using your eco-friendly bubble solution.

Confetti

Throw natural confetti made of dried flower petals, herbs, or leaves to make sure these breakdowns quickly. The more natural material you can get, the better.

Tree or Flower Planting

Planting flowers or trees is an excellent way to honor a loved one. Trees will remind you of a friend or a family member while providing benefits to the environment and future generations.

While it can be a challenge to get rid of the elegant design, patterns, and enticing colors of balloons, these are harmful to the environment. Given the hazards they can cause, it is now time to shift to these green options.