Suggestions to Minimize Environmental Impact
•· Only latex balloons should be used in balloon releases
•· Metallic foil balloons (sometimes referred to as Mylar) should never be released or used in a balloon release
•· Latex balloons with a metallic pigment, or internal lights should never be used in a balloon release
•· Only 12" (30cm) or smaller balloons should be used in a balloon release
•· Only Helium (He) should be used to inflate the balloons
•· Balloons should be fully inflated to ensure that they will float to optimum altitude and burst into small pieces improving the decomposition time
•· Only biodegradeable products should be attached to the balloons, preferably none, try writing or drawing on the balloon instead of attaching a note
•· No ribbons or strings should be attached to the balloons
•· Balloons should be hand tied and no valves, plugs or other devices should be used to seal the balloons.
•· Balloons must not be tied together they must always be released in singles
•· Where the balloons are restrained before release the restraining medium must be attached to the ground or a fixed structure to prevent any inadvertent release of the restraining medium with the balloons.
If releasing more than 500 balloons at one location, FAA must be informed.
Latex balloons are made of tree sap, with biodegradable coloring, and safe for release into the atmosphere. Here's a link to a study that examined various claims about effects of released balloons on the environment and wildlife:
https://www.balloonhq.com/faq/deco_releases/release_study.html