2024-08-08
Despite overwhelming evidence of the harmful impact on marine life and birds, the NSW Labor Government has announced its opposition to the Greens' bill aimed at banning helium balloon releases in NSW.
Greens MP Kobi Shetty, who introduced the bill, expressed deep disappointment at the government's refusal to take action on this critical environmental issue.
Kobi Shetty MP, NSW Greens spokesperson on plastic, said:
“Scientists predict that by 2050, we will have more plastic in the ocean than fish. If we want to protect our living planet for future generations, we need to act now. There’s no time for pointless delays from a government dragging their feet on basic reforms.
"It is deeply disappointing that the Labor Government have announced their opposition to our bill while simultaneously acknowledging that balloons are among the most dangerous forms of plastic pollution for birds and marine animals.
“This contradiction highlights a sad disregard for our environment and the Australian animals that will continue to suffer due to these avoidable pollutants.
"This bill was an opportunity to prevent the tragic deaths of countless animals and ensure a safer future for our wildlife. By blocking this legislation, the government is failing to protect our environment and the creatures that depend on it.
“Our community expects action, they don’t want this problem to be left for the next generation to deal with. The government needs to get on with this simple change, not take another year to get this done.
"Other states have already recognized the dangers and introduced bans on helium balloon releases. NSW is lagging behind, and Labor's inaction only exacerbates the problem.
"We need proactive measures to address plastic pollution, and this bill was a straightforward step in the right direction. Labor's opposition will be very frustrating for our community who are desperate for governments to act quickly to get plastic pollution out of our oceans."