Balloon releases harm wildlife, pets, livestock and the environment! They do not "go to Heaven". They land in random places, where they end up in waterways or ingested by animals. There are far better ways to celebrate or mourn. Balloons take 6 months to 4 years to break down. Until that happens, animals are in danger of ingesting them in part or entirely. This does not include the string, that is often attached to a balloon. The string, itself, could take up to 10 years to break down entirely (depending on what material is used). Aside from choking many different species, these strings can also cause many internal problems. These problems include, but are not limited to: bowel obstruction, stomach perforation, bowel perforation, intestinal blockages, choking, asphyxiation, starvation and many other health problems that would likely result in death. Not only do these balloons and strings cause problems for wildlife and other animals, they also pollute the planet. Whether they are in a landfill, waterway or in a tree, they are pollution. We can be fined for littering, yet balloon releases are celebrated worldwide. It is time the human race stops thinking just of themselves. We all need to work together to make this world a better, healthier place for ourselves and future generations. It is time to take a stand. Thank you.