Balloon Releases
More and more we are being asked for balloons to release in memory of a loved one. It’s a very difficult time for family and friends but we hope this will help explain why we do not provide balloons for release. Please ask for other ideas to celebrate the life of someone dear to you.
NABAS Guidelines and Code of Conduct for Balloon Releases
Say “NO” To Balloon Releases. We strongly recommend our customers do not support the deliberate release of balloons. As the leading trade association, it is our constant goal to protect our members, our industry and indeed the end users and our environment.
- Don’t Let Go
- Always Dispose of Balloons Safely
- Beware of Latex Allergies
Yes, we know under current legislation, balloon releases are legal, and we can only advise of the risks and dangers. We have asked the government to ban the release of sky lanterns, foil balloons and any balloon with ribbons or plastic attached, and we will continue to press for this regulation.
The Guidelines and Code of Conduct are designed for anyone who is planning a Balloon Release. We believe this should be strictly adhered to in the interest of safeguarding the environment.
Our environment & latex balloons
Guide to Balloon Releases
This information and the Guidelines and Code of Conduct are provided for people and organisations planning their own balloon release for fund raising or any other purpose. We strongly recommend that only a small balloon release should be attempted without professional assistance. Small being defined as anything up to 1000 balloons. This guidance is designed to minimise the risk of any potential danger to animals, sea creatures and the general environment.
What happens when a Balloon is released?
A scientific survey carried out in 1989 revealed that on release a balloon will float up to a height of approximately 5 miles and then it becomes brittle and shatters into minuscule pieces falling back to earth at a rate of circa one piece every 5 square miles. Problems can arise when a balloon is not inflated properly or fully or is carrying too much weight and therefore does not reach the height at which shattering occurs. This situation causes a potential danger to wildlife and the environment.
What can I do to reduce this risk?
The Balloon Industry has produced a Code of Conduct, with input from leading environmental organisations; you should follow this advice to the letter.
Conclusion
Balloon releases are fun, spectacular and fulfil a variety of promotional and fundraising objectives. However if best practice is not followed major problems can occur.
If you require any further clarification or need advice please contact NABAS, The Balloon Industry’s only independent association on 01787 221026.
Applying for permission from the Civil Aviation Authority
It is a requirement that if you are releasing more than 5,000 balloons you must apply in writing for permission to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) at least 28 days in advance of the release because balloons can interfere with air traffic.
The CAA also like to be informed of balloon releases up to 5,000.
A form can be obtained by calling the Airspace Utilisation Section of the CAA on 020 7453 6599
Our Environment and Latex Balloons
What are balloons made of?
There are basically two types of balloons, foil balloons and latex balloons. The foil balloons (often referred to as mylar), are a bladder made of nylon that is covered with a layer of aluminium that is 0.0015 of an inch thick. Latex balloons are made from the sap of rubber trees – a completely natural substance.
Are latex balloons biodegradeable?
Yes. Latex is the product of rubber tree sap, it breaks down when exposed to the elements of nature.
How long does it take for a ballon to biodegrade?
Oxidation is the first step in the breakdown of a latex balloon and it begins within approximately one hour of inflation. Oxidation is visible in some types of balloons as a cloudy appearance. This is most evident when the balloon is exposed to direct sunlight, heat or normal outdoor conditions.
Research was carried out in July 1989 with a variety of balloons under various conditions to accurately gauge the time needed for the latex to degrade. Results from this study indicate that the decomposition time for balloons is about the same rate as an oak leaf (6 months).
Is it true that balloons have been found ingested by sea animals?
Some cases have been reported, but balloon fragments are unlikely to cause harm if accidentally ingested. This is because latex and the dyes used in latex colouring are non-toxic. However problems may occur if a partially inflated balloon is ingested, causing possible blockage of the alimentary tract.
Code of Conduct
NABAS is very aware of its responsibilities to the environment. This Code of Conduct was produced to formalise the principles for balloon releases, which have long been the standard for the Industry. It is extremely important that everyone adheres to this code in the interest of safeguarding the environment.
1. Only natural latex rubber balloons will be used for Releases
Latex, being an organic product degrades naturally in the environment. Balloons made of any material other than latex and in particular foil balloons (often referred to as Mylar) should not be used for Releases.
2. All components used in balloon releases must be biodegradable
Balloons must be hand tied, plastic valves should not be used. Any attached labels must be of paper, preferably recycled.
3. Only helium gas should be used to inflate the balloons
Helium is an inert lighter-than-air gas. As the balloon rises, the gas expands until eventually the balloon bursts producing small fragments, which aid decomposition.
4. No ribbons or strings must be attached to the balloons
Ribbons and strings represent a potential problem and must never be used in balloon releases. Labels should be attached via the hand tied balloon knot.
5. Balloons must always be launched singly
Single balloons disperse easily and quickly. They must never be tied together in bunches for balloon releases.
6. Full approval must be obtained from the relevant authorities
Releases exceeding 5000 balloons should not take place unless they have been cleared in advance with all relevant air traffic and local authorities. The Authorities must be notified in writing at least 28 days prior to the release.
7. Maximum balloon size
Balloons larger than 12“ can not be released. It is forbidden to use balloons containing any metallic pigment.
8. All balloons sold near balloon releases must be weighted
Any balloons sold in the vicinity of a balloon release must be sold with a weight attached to ensure they cannot escape. Foil Balloons must never be released. Latex balloons with a plastic valve and ribbon must also be weighted.
Foil (Mylar) Balloons
All helium filled foil balloons should be attached to a suitable weight to ensure that they are not released into the environment
All helium filled foil balloons in a bouquet or arrangement should be individually tied to a weight
It is recommended that balloon professionals familiarise themselves with the Law in California relating to helium filled foil balloons. The following link shows the information on the International Balloon Association (IBA) website. California Balloon Law