“We are proud to be among the first Asia Pacific hospitality companies to announce that we're banning balloons, which particularly when released outdoors, can end up in our waterways, oceans and parklands and can cause damage to our environment and land animals,” said Barry Robinson, president international operations Wyndham Vacation Clubs.
Wyndham Destinations Asia Pacific has banned balloons at events across its five corporate offices, 19 sales sites and 34 managed resorts across Asia Pacific.
“We are proud to be among the first Asia Pacific hospitality companies to announce that we're banning balloons, which particularly when released outdoors, can end up in our waterways, oceans and parklands and can cause damage to our environment and land animals,” said Barry Robinson, president international operations Wyndham Vacation Clubs.
The ban on balloons, which comes as part of Wyndham’s green sustainabilty programme, is heeding a recent CSIRO study that identified balloons among the top three most harmful pollutants threatening marine wildlife, along with plastic bags and bottles.
Pieces of brightly coloured balloons mimic the appearance of food and are often ingested by animals, causing obstruction and death. Ribbons, plastic clip ties and strings attached to balloons can also cause harm.
“With our resort openings, conferences, functions, and regular events held throughout the year such as career days, Inclusion Day and staff birthdays, the use of these single-use plastics adds up,” said Ben Perkins, sustainability manager at Wyndham Destinations Asia Pacific.
“Moving forward, staff at Wyndham Destinations Asia Pacific will look into alternative, plastic-free and re-usable decorations at resort and corporate events.”