❗️The Problem

Balloon Releases Wreak Havoc Across North Carolina

Balloon releases threaten our state’s public safety, wildlife and livestock, health, and infrastructure. Sign the petition to join NC Youth for Clear Skies and Seas in advocating for the passage of a law implementing a statewide ban on balloon releases.

Balloon Releases Cause Power Outages and Fires

Balloons cause up to 20% of power outages across the United States each year. Mylar balloons explode on impact with power lines and have high risk of starting fires. Banning balloon releases improves reliable energy access and strengthens our infrastructure.

Balloons Reduce Coastal Wildlife Populations

Balloons released into the environment frequently impact wildlife, including North Carolina economically-important seafood species and endangered species. The strings of balloons can entangle, amputate limbs, and lead to death in North Carolina coastal species. When ingested, balloons are 32 times more deadly than hard plastic to seabirds. After mistaking balloons for jellyfish, sea turtles perish from starvation. Banning fatal balloon releases saves cherished state wildlife.

Balloons Kill Farm Livestock

When balloons fall back to earth, they may be mistakenly consumed by farm animals. Balloon ingestion causes high mortality rates. A balloon release ban can prevent loss of life and protect the resources of our local agriculture economy.

Balloon Litter Harms Human Health

Many balloons are made from petroleum-derived plastics and contain harmful additives like flame retardants and preservatives. Mylar balloons never biodegrade and become microplastics, while latex balloons are often greenwashed with false or exaggerated claims of natural degradation. As balloons sit on land or in the ocean, they shed dangerous materials into our waterways.

✅ The Solution

What Are Balloon Release Bans?

This year, the NC General Assembly is considering implementing a law to ban balloon releases across the state, Senate Bill 20: Prohibiting Certain Mass Balloon Releases. The proposed bill would it make it illegal to intentionally release balloons (latex or Mylar) in the state of North Carolina. The law would also establish a $250 fine for violations. 

Balloon releases are already banned in California, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Maine, Maryland, Nevada, Rhode Island, Tennessee, and Virginia. Research shows that policies banning balloon releases significantly reduce balloon litter in the environment.

Alternatives Exist

There are many alternatives to commemorate important moments. To observe life markers or remember a loved one:

-       Blow eco-friendly bubbles into the sky

-       Grow a plant that flourishes over time

-       Use paper-based decorations like garlands or pom-poms for celebrations

-       Host an event to fundraise for your chosen cause and uplift others

Balloon Release Bans are Bipartisan

Senate Bill 20 was introduced by Republican Senator Bobby Hanig and cosponsored by Democrat Senators Gale Adcock and Woodson Bradley. Balloon release bans are successful in Currituck and Dare Counties: let’s take the movement state-wide to stop balloons from endangering our communities!

Image: Balloons found on North Carolina shores