Our Monthly Tip: Release Bubbles Not Balloons

A group of people gather around as large bubbles float in the air.
Credit: happymag.tv

Our Tip of the Month 

The practice of releasing mass balloons at memorial services or celebrations of life has been around for ages. However, when your loved one adored nature and believed in good stewardship of our land, releasing balloons in their honor would be the last thing they would want. Thankfully, there is a safe, eco-friendly alternative — blowing bubbles into the air.

When people release balloons outside, there is no telling where that balloon will end up. Not only will it land as litter, a balloon can cause serious injury to wildlife. The attached strings can become entangled around birds, turtles, etc. and strangle them. There have also been autopsies on whales and dolphins where a balloon was discovered in their stomach as they mistakenly took it as food. Whether concerned about the environment or not, no one would love being the cause of that.

Blowing bubbles at sunset.
Credit: commons.wikimedia.org

Gathering together as a group at your beloved’s celebration of life and opting to blow bubbles together is a wonderful substitute. Bubbles are not only better for the environment, but they also have other tangible benefits. Bubbles are often easier to obtain and can be found at more stores. Unlike balloons, which require finding an employee to blow each one up, bubbles save time. They also save space and are much easier to transport.

How-To Suggestions 

Each person attending can either bring their own bubbles or bubbles can be ordered in a mass quantity online from Amazon, Target and various other merchants. You’ll find a  large variety to choose from, including different sizes, colors and price points. Regardless, loving the environment like your loved one did is a beautiful tribute in itself. Just like we only get one life, we only have one earth, and it could use some extra love.