Solutions to Reduce and Eliminate Balloon Litter
Changing Behavior
Partners in the Mid-Atlantic are conducting extensive research to better understand who plans balloon release events – and, most importantly, why balloons are selected to celebrate and memoralize in lieu of other actions. The partners have received a grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Marine Debris Program to focus on this question and to develop a social marketing campaign to “sell” litter-free alternatives to balloon releases.
Person talking to Virginia House Sub-Committee about balloon litter. Credit: Laura Habr.
Policies and Laws
Some bans and restrictions have been enacted concerning balloon releases. In most cases, these bans are being implemented on the local level (e.g., town, city, province, etc.) rather than state or country-wide.
In order to prevent releases, some laws also address the types and manner in which balloons are sold.
Balloon Mission collections at the Long Island Children's Museum, Garden City NY. Credit: Cynthia Seibold
Collecting and Recycling Balloons
Launched in 2023, Balloon Mission is a growing balloon collection and recycling initiative for post-event deflated balloons in the U.S. With collections in 10 states and a mail-in program, everyone can join the movement to prevent balloon litter and celebrate responsibly! Check out the website for a Pop-n-Drop bin near you!
Are you an individual, organization, or venue interested in bringing recycling to your community? Become an "Ambassador" or “Chapter” partner today!
Contact Balloon Mission to learn more - info@balloonmission.org
