AIBU to beg for no more balloon releases

[Newspeaker]

Why is it that at the times of the worst tragedy so many people still think it is OK to release dangerous litter into the sky? Surely in every group who plan these events there will be at least one person who understands the implications and can push for an alternative?
That's it really. Don't tell me people need to grieve - there are plenty of other ways to signal your grief, if you feel the need to do that. Does anyone want the memorial to their loved one be tainted by - just one real life example - a dead donkey foal with a balloon and the string in her gut? It seems particularly ironic that our young people can be so vocal about environmental issues, and yet they still flock to buy the balloons and take part in these releases.
It just breaks my heart to see this, knowing that the odds are some animals will suffer or die from our thoughtlessness, and yet again the land will be littered.

Any time someone posts about this they get accused of bad timing and insensitivity. Caring about our environment and feeling deep sadness for tragic losses aren't mutually exclusive. We have to find some time to speak up, because however much we do, it still happens.

How hideous and so many balloons too as well as helium ones not to mention flares.

Better choices

You can beg all you like. I’m still going to do it.
Well there's your answer, OP. Unfortunately until they are actually banned there are still ignorant idiots like this who like to cause harm and litter.

Is it though?

Biodegradable balloons still take a long time to break down and are therefore still a hazard to animals.

Perhaps withdraw a passport or driving licence for a period of time.
Not the passport though - a free one way ticket far away instead!

ecofreek.com/biodegradable/biodegradable-balloons/

I agree with you apart from this...

"It seems particularly ironic that our young people can be so vocal about environmental issues, and yet they still flock to buy the balloons and take part in these releases"

'Young people aren't one hive mind. It's highly unlikely that the young people being vocal about the environment are the same young people going to balloon releases. They are different young people.

In the same way that the middle aged, middle class 'No More Oil' protestors are not the same middle aged, middle class people who are pro-fox hunting.

This appeared on 13th April - in the middle of woods where I walk my dog - at least 20 mins walk from the nearest road. It's still there after 6 weeks - too high to reach to drag it down.

I agree with you but so many don’t think I lose hope. Every time people mention something that is environmentally damaging people pop up with “but so is X!” but you of course, can’t ban X because “but what about Y?” and so on.

I think change needs to come, and fast. And if they come for the convenience or entertainment items I use for instance, that’s fine - just start with something and keep going.

Re. roadside memorials - perhaps people could plant something, rather than leaving cut flowers or cuddly toys? Scatter wildflower seeds, maybe, or plant something like snowdrops so they will come up every year, instead of lasting only a short time before they rot.

I do understand why people want to do something in memory of a loved one - I lost my mum in March - but there are things people can do that won’t damage the environment or hurt animals, and will have a positive impact - encouraging bees, for example, or planting more trees that help clean the air.

OP clearly explained what the issue is, what a moronic response.

This is something that should never have got past the 'I've got an good idea' let alone the manufacturing stage.
I'm amazed that you can actually send a naked flame off into the unknown.

i’m not sure being against mindless littering elevates me to the status of ‘eco warrior’, but if you like 🤷🏻‍♀️

You’ll cope. Those inclined to releasing balloons generally aren’t receptive to arguments against them, however polite the presentation.

I actually can't believe people still let Chinese Lanterns go. I voiced concerns at a wedding 12 years ago when they were letting them go.

@Jourdain11 they are basically a mini hotair balloon, wire frame covered with a fabric and a tea-light candle inside them.

Absolute stupidness. And teaching children its OK. 🙄

the young people who are vocal about the environment are not the same young people who release balloons and Chinese lanterns into the sky.

Unfortunately there are a lot of thick ignorant types who think they're being in on the latest FB or Tiktok trend, either that or equally thick virtue signalling.

How about remembering people who have died, without casting anything into the pale blue yonder? But I suppose that doesn't rack up the likes and the vomit inducing comments.

Let’s be honest, most people attending these are doing it so they can post a photo on social media with ‘fly high’ on it.

These events may start as a time and place for group grieving. But the balloon release, masses of photos, fireworks, (often) drinking and a party isn’t for the person who’s passed isn’t to support anyone. It’s for peoples own gratification.

I was going to say, lights on phone held aloof. Looks and feels very effective at a concert.
Or speak to the local pigeon men and ask if they would do a release. Amazing to just watch, when at the allotment.

Spray water into the air
Sprinkle some sand onto the ground
Throw flour at each other
Golf club an ice cube across a car park
Everyone drop a leaf
Free peeing
Wail

all great and necessary ways to mark your grief by performing some kind of collective public act

It’s a certain… type of person who does them, and they lack the critical thinking facilities/brain cells required to think ahead to the consequences of their actions.

Yeah the “x’s Army” lunatics who egg on the parents of suffering children to harass the hospital. “Fly high wiv the angles” etc

@SunnySaturdayMorning Next time you or one of yours needs an MRI scan but can't have one 'cos there's no helium ask yourself if your stance was worth it.