As the world watched a livestream of China’s World War II commemorations, many were left in awe at the spectacle, but one key moment has been labelled “dangerous” and a “mistake”.
Along with the release of 80,000 doves, China concluded its commemorations by unleashing 80,000 helium-filled balloons over Tiananmen Square in central Beijing. While the moment was celebrated on Chinese social media as a “breathtaking scene”, conservationists were concerned about the environmental impact of the spectacle.
Back in 2020, the country’s leaders announced an ambitious plan to reduce single-use plastics, and as a major contributor of marine plastics, the country has played a significant role in efforts to create a Global Plastics Treaty. And so the decision to release thousands of plastic balloons over the city has frustrated some environmentalists.
Releasing balloons, as seen here over Beijing on Wednesday, is illegal in some part of Australia. Source: Reuters
Why was releasing 80,000 balloons a mistake?
In Australia, the practice of releasing balloons is illegal in some states, including Victoria, and considered littering.
Jeff Angel, the founder of Australia’s Boomerang Alliance, noted balloon plastic, cords and tags have been identified as a pollutant that harms marine life. He said there has been some progress in China’s efforts to reduce its plastic use, but today’s events indicate it needs to rethink balloon releases.
“Eighty thousand balloons are inevitably going to cause significant, dangerous plastic pollution,” he said.
“If they’re interested in reducing plastic pollution, then it’s a mistake to release 80,000 balloons.”
Among the attendees at the commemorations was former Victorian premier Daniel Andrews (top right). Source: Reuters
Today’s commemorations were attended by Chinese president Xi Jinping, who was photographed walking beside Russian president Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. Earlier, other leaders from around the world, including former Victoria Premier Dan Andrews and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto were photographed attending the event.
They were treated to a four-hour celebration, showcasing the country’s military strength, aimed at commemorating the country’s resistance against Japanese aggression during WWII.
Love Australia’s weird and wonderful environment? 🐊🦘😳 Get our new newsletter showcasing the week’s best stories.
