As a coastal city, Goleta has a unique responsibility to protect the ocean and local environment by reducing single-use plastic consumption and litter. With upcoming celebrations and graduations around the corner, we encourage the community to celebrate sustainably and opt for decorations that are more environmentally friendly. As you plan for parties and holidays, the City of Goleta urges you to avoid single-use plastic products, ©Styrofoam, and helium-filled balloons in an effort to support the health of our community and environment. 

Under the City of Goleta’s Single-Use Plastic Reduction Ordinance, passed unanimously by City Council in 2022, the sale and distribution of rigid polystyrene products (i.e. solo cups), foam polystyrene (©Styrofoam), and ©Mylar or foil balloons are prohibited. While all balloons are not banned, releasing any balloons into the air is considered littering and is prohibited anywhere in the City. 

These specifically regulated products can linger in surrounding ecosystems for decades to come and are extremely harmful to marine and aquatic life. Birds, turtles, and other animals often mistake balloons and plastics for food, and when ingested, this plastic debris can block the digestive tract of the animal, often resulting in death by starvation. Wildlife can also get entangled in balloon ribbons. The good news is that there are plenty of low-waste, festive ways to celebrate and decorate. Here are a few alternatives and swaps that you can make: 

• Replace balloons with bubbles, paper bunting, paper streamers, or locally sourced flowers to liven up your party. Paper decorations can be reused and recycled, making them a colorful and conscious choice. 

• Borrow, rent, or thrift unique decorations like vases, candles, and tableware. This allows you to cut down on waste and invest in a reusable item that you can decorate with for multiple years. 

• Serve meals family-style using normal plates and silverware to minimize single-use items and food waste. The sale and distribution of plastic utensils is also prohibited within the City. 

By embracing these sustainable celebration tips, we can preserve the natural beauty and health of our community while still enjoying festivities. 

For more information about single-use plastic reduction efforts in the City of Goleta and tips on avoiding plastic consumption visit www.cityofgoleta.org/PlasticFreeGoleta. #GoGreenGoleta