We have introduced a ban on the release of helium balloons and sky lanterns to protect wildlife and the local environment.
In response to a request from the charity Animal Concern, members of the Environment and Climate Change Committee unanimously agreed to prohibit the release of the products from all council land and premises and from council licensed events.
They can pose risks to farmed animals and companion animals as well as wildlife and marine life, constitute a fire risk and result in environmental blight of the land.
“We are pleased to support Animal Concern’s campaign,” said Councillor James McPhilemy, Vice Convener of the Environment and Climate Change Committee.
“We share their view that releasing sky lanterns and helium balloons is a risk not worth taking to protect wildlife, household pets, and farmed animals. As councillors, we have a duty to do what we can to safeguard animal welfare insofar as we can and to tackle avoidable fire hazards. These measures go some way to achieving that.
“We are saying to the people of North Lanarkshire and beyond to consider the consequences of releasing lanterns and balloons once the initial spectacle disappears over the horizon. What goes up must come down and these are both a real hazard when they do.”
Graeme Corbett from Animal Concern welcomed the council’s decision, saying: “We are obviously delighted that North Lanarkshire has moved to safeguard animal welfare by passing restrictions on the release of sky lanterns and helium balloons. We are particularly pleased that councillors of all parties were quick to give their support, and we’re grateful for it. They’ve shown that we can be a nation of animal lovers and that this issue cuts through party lines.
“As was raised in committee this is about raising awareness of the risks and dangers rather than punishing people. We take the view that people release lanterns and balloons without thinking through what happens next when what is no doubt an attractive spectacle, disappears over the horizon.”
The ban is supported by a range of organisations, including the National Farmers Union Scotland, the SSPCA, the Scottish Fire & Rescue Service, Keep Scotland Beautiful and the majority of Scottish local authorities.