What's the problem with balloons?
When balloons are released, they don’t just disappear.
They float back down to earth where they are the same as any other litter. But balloons are particularly dangerous pieces of litter. They are mistaken for food by many species of wildlife, especially turtles.
Once balloons have been eaten they can block digestive systems and cause animals to starve. The string on balloons can entangle and trap animals.
What is MCS doing?
We want to get balloon releases stopped.
We encourage all organisations that are planning balloon releases to choose an event that will not threaten wildlife. We are trying to get every council to ban balloon releases on their land – many have done so already.
We do not want to stop people having fun – we just want to protect our vulnerable marine species from more litter.
To learn more about what happens to balloons when they are released and to download our Don’t Let Go leaflets and posters.
Please report an upcoming balloon release in your area.
