Through a publication, the Ministry of Nature wants to remind all citizens and visitors that since 2019, the use of plastic balloons in the open air is not allowed. It is also important to inform that they cause a negative impact on the environment.
The Ministry of Nature reminds all citizens that since December 2019, the use of balloons in the open air, meaning outside, is not permitted. The Environmentally Harmful Products Ordinance specifically names plastic balloons and confetti. Note has been taken that this has not been considered during the secondary school graduation season and a soccer championship celebration.
Plastic balloons can easily cause negative impacts on our environment because:
- They can cause serious harm to our animals, both on land and in water, as they can mistake them for food. This can cause them significant harm and even death.
- They contribute to pollution on land and in the sea. The wind can carry them over long distances and bring them into our world and beaches.
- They release harmful chemicals during their decomposition process. This can affect the quality of our soil and water through contamination.
The Ministry of Nature urges the entire population of Aruba to stop using plastic balloons in the open air so we can take care of our environment. The responsibility to safeguard our nature falls on all of us who live on this island, not just a few.
Similarly, it should be noted that the use of helium balloons also represents a danger given the various incidents that have occurred with power lines due to the use of these balloons. For this reason, ELMAR N.V. sent a message to the people of Aruba in late May to raise awareness that helium balloons are made of aluminum material.
Aluminum is a conductive metal, and when these balloons come into contact with power lines, they can cause a short circuit.
For this reason, both the Ministry of Nature and the state company ELMAR N.V are calling on the community to, when using balloons or plastic balloons, not let them fly away considering the dangers they can cause to the environment, animals, and even the community itself.
