Unions highlight farm risk from sky lanterns
© Mbolina/Adobe Stock Members of the public have been asked not to release “dangerous” sky lanterns for Bonfire Night celebrations.
The NFU is warning that sky lanterns – also known as Chinese lanterns – injure or kill farm animals and wildlife, create litter and are a considerable fire risk in the countryside to crops and farm buildings.
“Please think twice before using a sky lantern this Bonfire Night,” tweeted the union.
See also: NFU seeks evidence in campaign for sky lantern ban
The release of sky lanterns by councils on public land is banned across Wales, but it is still permitted across parts of England. The NFU is collecting names for an online petition which calls for a complete ban.
No matter the occasion, sky lanterns still injure animals, create litter and cause fires 🔥 Please think twice before using a sky lantern this Bonfire Night
Help us bring an end to sky lanterns and become a #BackBritishFarming supporter 🏮👉 https://t.co/jsnFI2ofmu pic.twitter.com/ScqOhzffMF
— National Farmers' Union (@NFUtweets) November 4, 2021
Redcar and Cleveland Council became the latest to announce a ban following a farm fire caused by a drifting lantern close to Guisborough, North Yorkshire, earlier in the year.
The Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) is urging people to remember the distress fireworks and sky lanterns can cause to livestock.
“This time of year poses many dangers to animals and children – so don’t let negligence and ignorance be the cause of a tragedy this year,” said FUW deputy president Ian Rickman.
“We, therefore, call on people to stick to the firework safety code at all times, to minimise the risk to livestock, pets and humans.”
‘Risks outweigh benefits’
UK green energy company Ecotricity, which is owned by entrepreneur Dale Vince, has urged people not to release sky lanterns and attend organised fireworks displays instead.
“Although sky lanterns don’t need lots of nasty chemicals to launch, they pose a significant risk to wildlife. With no control over where they’re going, they can end up just about anywhere,” Ecotricity said.
“The wire in the lanterns has been responsible for animals getting trapped and has even ended up in animal feed.
“They may be beautiful to look at but the risks far outweigh the benefits.”