Yes, even releasing one helium balloon into the sky can be seriously damaging for the environment. Researchers at the University of Michigan studied the environmental impact of balloons and found some can travel thousands of miles. When they pop, they pose a serious threat to wildlife who mistake them for food. For example, sea turtles can confuse balloons for jellyfish. Even “biodegradable” ones pose a threat; after 16 weeks in different environments, these balloons did not degrade.
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ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION