This time of the year, there are a lot of things to celebrate, but keep in mind when planning your celebrations that releasing balloons as part of your event is not a good idea. Michelle Pate , DNRSea Turtle Program Coordinator, says that released balloons “end up in our waterways once they deflate.
They’re actually one of the most common types of trash on our beaches and are often eaten by sea turtles, who mistake them for jellyfish. Unfortunately, that can result in blocked intestines and death. On the upside, however, we can make a difference in the problem by celebrating in other ways. [For celebrations, try incorporating] things like bubbles, anchored balloons, or tree plantings for memorial occasions.”