Don't be a goon, ditch the balloon is the message from Council in the lead-up to the complete ban on the use of balloons in all Council buildings, parks and outdoor areas from 1 January next year.
Balloons, once a party staple, have been found to wreak havoc on animals and marine life. Whether foil, latex or so-called environmentally-friendly materials, all balloons have the potential to cause harm to our local ecosystems.
Even products labelled biodegradable can still take years to decay – in that time, they can be devastating to animals that swallow parts of them or get tangled in the strings they are often attached to.
The total balloon ban follows Council's move in September to prohibit the release of helium balloons on Council-owned land. It also falls in line with the NSW Government's ban on single-use plastics which was recently widened to include items such as plastic containers and cups, stirrers, and plastic microbeads.
Director Sustainable Communities and Environment Stewart Brawley said there had been widespread acceptance of Council's initial ban on balloon releases.
"The community welcomed our initial ban on balloon releases, this is just another step forward in reducing our impact and keeping the rich and diverse ecosystems found across the Tweed free of harmful pollutants," Mr Brawley said.
"The Tweed is a forerunner when it comes to matters on climate change and protecting our natural environment so that future generations can enjoy it. We want to thank our community for embracing initiatives like this."
Council is encouraging the community to share their balloon alternatives. Use the tag #ditchtheballoon on social media to highlight the ideas you've come up with.
It is important to note the total balloon ban does not extend to events held on privately-owned land.
