Balloon releases are commonly used, and can be an environmentally safe way of memorializing and remembering our loved ones who have gone before us.
Rarely do released balloons return to the earth’s surface intact. Studies show these balloons usually rise to an altitude of about five miles. At that point, freezing and air pressure causes “brittle fracture” creating spaghetti-like pieces that scatter to the four winds. Research shows that regardless of the latex balloon’s ultimate form when it lands, it will decompose, forming a natural soil nutrient at the same rate as that of an oak leaf.
There are laws regarding balloon releases and it is important to research before releasing in mass. In the State of TN you cannot launch more than 25 in mass, a fine of $250 is imposed for each balloon over the 25 limit. The balloons must be self-tied, no strings or ribbons, made of a bio-degradable material.