AN ENVIRONMENTALIST is urging people to be wary of releasing “incredibly harmful” balloons – after finding a charity’s bunch.

Ben Porter, a biology student and photographer who lives on Bardsey Island off the tip of the Llyn Peninsula, is warning people of the impact that releasing bunches of balloons can have on the marine environment.

According to the Marine Conservation Society, balloons can cause severe issues on coastlines around the world.

They will always fall to earth as litter but, if swallowed, balloons can block an animal’s gut and cause it to starve.

Also, animals can become entangled in balloon ribbons and string, restricting their movement and their ability to feed.

Ben was upset that balloons are still so prevalent.

Speaking after finding a stray bunch of balloons whilst walking around Ynys Enlli, he said: “Why do we use these things?

“This huge bunch of balloons blew ashore - just about managed to catch them before they headed on into the Irish Sea.

“Why not plant a tree to celebrate an occasion as opposed to releasing these incredibly harmful plastic menaces?

“I am sure there are other ways to promote your cause, in this case the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association.”

A spokesperson for the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association said the group was ‘saddened’ by the news, adding: “We would never ever release balloons or send them to our fundraisers for this intention.

“We occasionally send balloons out for indoor events that our taking place so our supporters can decorate venues with IMNDA branded promotional items but we have never been aware of our supporters purposely releasing balloons and would be shocked if that was the case.

"I can only imagine (and hope) it was a complete accident.

“We are well aware of the damage balloons do to wildlife and the environment.”

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