Laguna Seashore in Southern California is thought for its pristine seashores, million-dollar mansions, and costly retailers and eating places — however do not count on to see any occasion balloons overhead beginning in 2024.
The Laguna Seashore Metropolis Council simply handed an ordinance prohibiting the sale, public use, and distribution of balloons. The ordinance goes into impact on January 1, 2024.
In accordance with the LA Occasions, individuals who purchase or promote balloons will quickly be fined as much as $100 for the primary offense, $200 for the second, and $500 for every subsequent violation.
Why is the town banning balloons?
In accordance with a report achieved by the Ocean Conservancy, balloons pose a big hazard to wildlife.
“Like many different types of artificial particles, balloons can resemble prey and pose a menace to all types of marine organisms all over the world, a lot of that are threatened or endangered,” mentioned Ocean Conservancy Marine Particles Specialist Nicholas Mallos.
When the balloons fall again all the way down to Earth, animals, birds, and fish can get sick or choke, consuming balloon fragments, plastic valves, and attachments. Many different marine animals drown when entangled in trailing ribbons or string.
Residents and enterprise homeowners have additionally expressed concern that the balloons get tangled in overhead energy strains and trigger fires.
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A part of a rising balloon ban development
Laguna’s balloon ban is a part of a development sweeping the nation.
Maryland and Virginia banned the intentional launch of balloons in 2021. Hawaii did the identical in 2022. States resembling New York and Florida are actually contemplating their very own balloon bans.
“We should not make the most of synthetic stuff like single-use plastic balloons.” Hoiyin Ip, co-chair of the Sierra Membership California zero waste committee, informed the LA Occasions. “That is horrible by way of the affect to wildlife and biodiversity. I hope it will change the way in which folks assume.”
