Herefordshire Council takes Stand Against Sky Lanterns and Helium Balloons

It’s good news for horse and livestock owners as well as wildlife that the Herefordshire Council will no longer permit the use of Sky Lanterns and Helium Balloons on council owned or leased land, nor at council run events. Their use will also be discouraged at licensed events across the county.

Sky (aka Chinese) lanterns and helium balloons are a serious threat to wildlife as well as the environment because it is impossible to control where they land. Animals eat lantern debris which can puncture internal organs and are poisonous and birds can get trapped and killed.

Councillor David Harlow, Cabinet Member for Economy and Corporate Services, said:

“The use of sky lanterns and helium balloons pose a serious threat to the county’s environment and wildlife, so I am pleased Herefordshire Council has joined over 60 other councils across the UK in banning their use.

“Sky lanterns and helium balloons will no longer be allowed at licensed events, or at events run on council owned or leased land. We would encourage those celebrating special occasions or fundraising to consider more environmentally-friendly options, such as planting a tree, or using lighting, bunting and flags.”

For more information about the dangers of sky lanterns and helium balloons visit www.herefordshire.gov.uk/skylanterns