Balloon Releases Myth: Balloon releases are harmful. Fact: When executed properly, latex balloon releases are fine. Often latex balloons are released. Research shows that most of these latex balloons -- the ones that are well-tied and have no structural flaws -- rise to an altitude of about five miles, where they freeze, breaking into spaghetti-like pieces that scatter as they return to earth. Important facts you should know about latex balloon releases: ◦Only latex balloons are used by professionals in mass releases. Industry guidelines require these balloons to be self-tied and have no attached strings or ribbons — each released balloon is 100 percent biodegradable. ◦Rarely do released balloons return to the earth’s surface intact. Studies show these balloons usually rise to an altitude of about five miles. At that point, freezing and air pressure causes “brittle fracture” creating spaghetti-like pieces that scatter to the four winds. ◦While some balloons don’t reach this altitude, research indicates that in an average 500-balloon release, the unexploded balloon return density is no greater than one per 15 square miles. ◦Research shows that regardless of the latex balloon’s ultimate form when it lands, it will decompose, forming a natural soil nutrient at the same rate as that of an oak leaf. Foil balloons should NOT be released, and should be secured to a weight. The product is a synthetic, metalized plastic/nylon material which is recyclable, but not biodegradable.
Posted on: Sun, 26 Oct 2014 18:16:45 +0000
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