DEEP offers environmentally-friendly tips for summer fun

These balloons were collected at Long Beach in Stratford near an important nesting area for state threatened piping plovers and least terns. Photo credit: Laura Saucier, DEEP Wildlife Division

Connecticut’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection is reminding residents and visitors of ways to enjoy outdoor celebrations this summer in an environmentally friendly manner. 

DEEP offers the following tips on how to have an environmentally-friendly backyard barbeque, graduation ceremony, wedding, or when enjoying the outdoors with family and friends.

• While balloons are a popular celebration tribute, do not release helium balloons into the air. Under Connecticut General Statutes, it is illegal for any person or any group to intentionally release 10 or more helium balloons per day. This law was passed to protect wildlife, particularly marine animals that live in Long Island Sound. A summer breeze can transport balloons released in inland areas all the way to the Sound. Once in the Sound, the deflated balloons – just like plastic bags and other floating plastic garbage – look like food (mainly jellyfish) to some sea creatures. When marine animals, particularly sea turtles, eat the floating plastic, their digestive systems become blocked and the animals die.
• If the balloons land on the ground before reaching Long Island Sound, they create litter that is hazardous to wildlife. Animals and birds can also become entangled in ribbon attached to a balloon and could die from starvation or strangulation.
• Use reusable plates, cups, and cutlery if possible. If you use disposable plates or napkins, look for those made from recycled content. Avoid polystyrene foam products. "Compostable" utensils and plates are only “greener” if you have made arrangements for composting them. For light snacks, try to serve "finger food" or food that can be served with minimal plates and utensils.
• Use cloth or reusable tablecloths. These can be rented along with tables and other event supplies so that you do not have to buy a lot of items unnecessarily.
• Serve drinks from pitchers or bottles rather than individual drink bottles.
• Serve locally grown foods whenever possible. Check the Connecticut Department of Agriculture’s website www.ct.gov/doag for the Connecticut Grown program.
• Provide separate containers for trash and recycling and have them clearly marked. Make sure trash containers are paired with recycling containers. For information on event recycling, go to www.ct.gov/recycle.
• For favors or centerpieces, choose edible or plantable items, which are less likely to end up in the trash. Buy local flowers or plants from farmers markets or farm stands, or, for real freshness, find a “pick your own” location. Check the Connecticut Department of Agriculture’s website www.ct.gov/doag, for a listing.

This is a press release from DEEP.