Community strongly behind Botanical Garden’s decision to ban balloons

The Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden’s decision to ban balloons from the premises has been met with overwhelming positivity and support from the community.

Balloons are regarded by many around the world as an environmental hazard, and the Botanical Garden joined in the movement against balloons when it announced earlier in March its intent to ban all types from the Garden as of 1 April. According to the Garden’s curator, Xolelwa Mokoena, the decision to ban balloons boils down to two very important factors.

“Firstly, people bring balloons into the Garden but don’t take them out when they leave,” Xolelwa said. “This eventually leads to the balloons popping into smaller fragments or the people tying the balloons to the trees.” She furthered her rationale by adding “Secondly, the small fragments that the balloons become are not biodegradable so they pose a threat to the birds and animals in the Garden as they mistake the colourful segments for food”. While some might feel it is the wrong decision there are many, many more who feel that the Garden has made an inspired decision, welcoming the choice with open arms. In a Facebook poll run by the Northsider, 896 people voted in favour of the decision, making up 94 per cent of the 957 votes, while the remaining six per cent (61 votes) voted against the decision.

Many Facebook users shared their views on the matter in the comments section as well, with a few saying it was a long time coming, and others saying it’s not the only thing that should be banned.

“Why has it taken so long? Ban them,” were the thoughts of Joan Paterson Humphries, while Beverley Surmon said that it’s an “Excellent idea. Should be banned altogether. Along with glitter.” Facebook user Frances Shortt even stated that Chinese Lanterns should also be banned from the Garden.