Laying Down the Law on Helium

Helium balloons are fun accessories that are loved by practically everyone. They are staples at graduations, birthday parties, anniversaries, and proms . They're bright, colorful and festive and adored by children all over the world. Many children jump for glee after losing grasp of a balloon to the wind. Helium balloons have become a part of our culture.

Though helium balloons may seem like innocent fun, many are unaware of the potential harm that they can cause to environment. Releasing helium balloons into the air or atmosphere may be fun to watch, but it really isn't a good idea if protection of marine wildlife is a primary concern. Animals and wildlife are prone to ingesting helium balloons when they are mistaken for food. Animals such as sea turtles and birds have also been found strangled by the strings from helium balloons.

Animals often are helpless victims of many actions of humankind. In order for society to thrive and flourish, great care and concern should be taken to protect the environment and all living creatures. Life on earth is dependent on the health of the ocean.

Banning of Helium Balloons

Some can't help but to think about the fun that is being spoiled because of helium balloon laws. Initiatives are being taken by various world governments in order to protect marine wildlife from being harmed by helium balloons. Certain areas in Australia and the United Kingdom have went so far as to ban helium balloons from being released into the atmosphere.

Citizens of the Sunshine coast in Australia are fined if they release helium balloons into the air. Certain states in America are also acknowledging the environmental troubles that helium balloons can cause. California, Connecticut, Tennessee, New York and Virginia are among the states that have enacted helium balloon laws.

In the state of New York, individuals must not release more than twenty-five helium balloons into the air within a 24 hour period. In Connecticut, the amount is even less. Connecticut law has made it illegal for anyone to release 10 or more helium balloons into the air within a 24 hour period. The state of California has very stringent laws regarding the sales and distribution of helium balloons.

Shortage of Helium?

Helium balloons made for industrial use are taken from natural gas, a non-renewable resource. Helium is a pretty rare element, making up only 0.00052% of the earth's atmosphere. The frequent and constant use of helium for industrial purposes could cause our reserves to become very low. Frequent use can lead to devastation especially when helium is used in medical devices that aid those who are unable to breathe. British chemist and teaching fellow at the University of Cambridge, Dr. Peter Wothers, has expressed significant concern for the misuse of helium.

"If we keep using it for non-essential things like party balloons, where we're just letting it float off into space, we could be in for some serious problems in around 30 to 50 years time."

Only time will tell if our supply of helium reaches an all time low. This can be prevented if society becomes more concerned about the environment and takes steps to cease misusing this non-renewable resource.

To learn more about Helium balloon laws visit

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