The stratosphere is quite a ways from space. Also what is the point you're trying to make? I don't think anyone on either side of the argument is very concerned with a one time world record attempt from 2012 when talking about helium conservation in 2019.

Not every finite resource has to be used toward the advancement of civilization or for some greater cause.

Also, lots of things can have indirect positive effects. I know lots of people got interested in space and other cool things as a result of that jump.

I think sometimes it's good for humans to do a thing just to see if they can.