29th February 2016

The ESG welcomes the public discussion taking place on the need to replace the annual release of thousands of balloons on National Day with an environmentally friendly alternative. It has been especially welcoming to hear our own Chief Minister call for change, with this further supported in a recent Chronicle editorial.

The ESG group acts on marine litter every year through its Clean up the World Campaign and feels most strongly that the massive balloon release is in direct conflict with our campaign aims and objectives to clean up, protect and conserve our living environment.

We welcome support for a safe alternative from both within and outside Gibraltar and would also wish to thank Lewis Pugh, the UNEP Patron of the Seas, for taking time out from his busy schedule to visit Gibraltar and discuss the true environmental cost of the balloon release directly with Government.

The ESG will work energetically in 2016 and in partnership with the GONHS, Mr Pugh, the SDGG and all others wanting to see real change on this issue. We agree there are several possible and safe alternatives that can truly celebrate our identity and also call upon the community to participate in the search for viable solutions.