Balloon release isn't harmful

On Sat., Aug. 25, Balloon Designs by Jeanne had the privilege of releasing 700 helium filled white latex balloons to celebrate the unveiling of the new community fountain at the Janss Marketplace. A couple of people asked us about the effect of the balloons and helium on the environment such as the ozone and sea life. I would like to address those issues here so that their concerns will be put to rest.

The latex balloons we use are Qualatex, 100 percent biodegradable rubber that is tapped from Hevea Brasiliensis trees, much like maple syrup. These trees grow in the rain forest and are not cut down because they make money by being tapped again and again. This helps our environment right there.

The balloons are filled with helium which is nonflammable and does not harm the ozone layer. The balloons were put into a net with no strings or ribbon attached to them. Only the balloons were released and not the net. The majority of the balloons go up into the atmosphere and burst into millions of pieces.

Those that remain intact are few and wide spread over the land or sea. They will break down quickly somewhat like dead leaves do. The litter that they create is less than many other things we find on our beaches such at cigarette butts and disposable diapers that are not biodegradable.

The concern for sea life is legitimate. It has been found that some sea turtles, dolphins and whales have swallowed balloons. The latex balloons have not been found to have been the cause of death.

Please be assured that latex balloon releases are a joyful event and nothing to feel guilty about. We never release metallic or foil balloons as they are bad for the environment and sea life. Jeanne Cockcroft Agoura Hills