Soaring Above the Traditional: Eco-friendly Alternatives to Helium Balloons at Funerals in Australia
SOARING ABOVE THE TRADITIONAL: ECO-FRIENDLY ALTERNATIVES TO HELIUM BALLOONS AT FUNERALS IN AUSTRALIA
At Funera Sydney, we believe in creating beautiful, meaningful farewells while also being mindful of our impact on the environment. One tradition that has recently come under scrutiny is the release of helium balloons at funerals and memorials. While the sight of balloons drifting into the sky is undoubtedly picturesque, it's important to acknowledge the harm it causes to our surroundings.
At Funera Sydney, we believe in creating beautiful, meaningful farewells while also being mindful of our impact on the environment. One tradition that has recently come under scrutiny is the release of helium balloons at funerals and memorials. While the sight of balloons drifting into the sky is undoubtedly picturesque, it's important to acknowledge the harm it causes to our surroundings.
WHY THE CRACKDOWN ON HELIUM BALLOON RELEASES?
In Victoria, the act of releasing helium balloons was deemed illegal from July 1, 2021, under the Environment Protection Act (2017). Individuals caught releasing a helium balloon could face fines of up to $991, while companies, including funeral homes, may incur penalties of up to $82,610 for balloon releases. Similarly, in New South Wales, releasing 20 or more helium balloons at once is considered an offence, with varying penalties based on the quantity released.
In Victoria, the act of releasing helium balloons was deemed illegal from July 1, 2021, under the Environment Protection Act (2017). Individuals caught releasing a helium balloon could face fines of up to $991, while companies, including funeral homes, may incur penalties of up to $82,610 for balloon releases. Similarly, in New South Wales, releasing 20 or more helium balloons at once is considered an offence, with varying penalties based on the quantity released.
HELIUM BALLOON ALTERNATIVES
- Blow Bubbles: Zoos Australia aptly suggests, "Balloons can be fun. But they don't belong outside." Blow bubbles or use a bubble machine for a whimsical and eco-friendly touch.
- Play or Sing a Special Song: Create a musical tribute that resonates with the departed's spirit.
- Release Butterflies: Symbolic and enchanting, the release of butterflies adds a touch of grace to any memorial.
- Decorate with Hanging Paper Lanterns or Pom Poms: Infuse colour and warmth into the venue with environmentally friendly decorations.
- Encourage Memory Book Contributions: Foster a sense of community by inviting attendees to share memories in a dedicated book.
- Hold a Tree-Planting Memorial:Embrace the circle of life by planting a tree in memory of your loved one.
- Light Candles or Lanterns: Create a serene atmosphere with the soft glow of candles or lanterns.
- Blow Bubbles: Zoos Australia aptly suggests, "Balloons can be fun. But they don't belong outside." Blow bubbles or use a bubble machine for a whimsical and eco-friendly touch.
- Play or Sing a Special Song: Create a musical tribute that resonates with the departed's spirit.
- Release Butterflies: Symbolic and enchanting, the release of butterflies adds a touch of grace to any memorial.
- Decorate with Hanging Paper Lanterns or Pom Poms: Infuse colour and warmth into the venue with environmentally friendly decorations.
- Encourage Memory Book Contributions: Foster a sense of community by inviting attendees to share memories in a dedicated book.
- Hold a Tree-Planting Memorial:Embrace the circle of life by planting a tree in memory of your loved one.
- Light Candles or Lanterns: Create a serene atmosphere with the soft glow of candles or lanterns.
CONTACT FUNERA SYDNEY FOR ECO-FRIENDLY FUNERAL SERVICES:
- Sydney: (02) 9954 6655
- Sydney (02) 9954 6655
- Newcastle (02) 4955 1110
- Wollongong (02) 4243 8755