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The Truth About the National Helium Shortage
The cause of the current helium shortage in the US is caused by many factors. Here are the truths we know:
- The Bureau of Land Management, the government agency who controls the helium reserves, is operating at maximum capacity.
- The Industrial Gas Producers are trying to find as much crude as they can to keep up with the ever growing demand - no one is stockpiling helium.
- Global industrialization has increased the demand for helium world-wide
- US reserves are being depleted at a rate of 6-7% per year
- Weather-related problems on the pipeline last winter and scheduled maintenance at the plants have caused disruptions in supply
- Delays in getting the Qatar and Algeria plants fully operational have added to the demand on US helium
- With increased demand and diminishing supply in US reserves, everyone is looking for ways to conserve
Balloons are the most readily recognized use for helium gas by the average consumer, but balloons account for only 7% of the helium used. The majority of helium is used by the medical field and the ever expanding industrial market. That is not to say that the balloon industry is not important to the helium producers.
In a conversation with Ron Weldon, Director of Strategic Accounts with Praxair Distribution, Inc., it was revealed that tests are being done right now to produce a helium/nitrogen mix that will successfully float balloons. Although float time will be reduced, helium can be conserved. Weldon concluded, "If the balloon industry can reduce their demand for helium by 15% they can have a profound effect on the US helium supply."
Now is the time for our industry to unify and speak with one voice to the helium producers. We need to acknowledge the need to conserve and collaborate to come up with alternatives to using pure helium. The helium shortage is a fact we must all live with - how we deal with it now will impact our future. The IBA is actively seeking council with US helium producers to protect this future. |
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Professional Development Resources
In keeping with the ideals and mission of the IBA, there are several resources available for professional development on the IBA Web site.
Curriculum Survey - Fill out a form to describe a class that you need to further your professional education.
Instructor Application and Profile - Submit information about your teaching history and background so that we can help education producers to find the right instructor for each class.
New This Week:
Mktg: Why One Sheets Are a Must Have
Distributors Who Teach is a valuable resource available to balloon professionals providing dates and information on educational events provided by US distributors.
New Products - A guide to new and innovative balloon industry products. |
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Join IBA Today
IBA Membership Dues payment is as easy as a click away. Now available on the IBA Web site is a SECURE ONLINE PAYMENT form to pay dues with a credit card. Easy, secure, and no checks to write or forms to fill out and fax. Your emailed receipt will confirm your transaction.
Membership Categories and Dues are as follows:
- Associate Member(Retail/Decor/Entertainer)-$99 Annual
- Distributor Member - $350 Annual
- Accessories Manufacturer - $600 Annual
- Balloon Manufacturer - $1200 Annual
Application Forms are also available:
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