RSPCA Cymru has welcomed the news that Monmouthshire council has banned sky lanterns and mass balloon releases on council-owned or managed land.

This latest move brings the number of local authorities in Wales who have banned lantern releases on their land to a total of 13. Caerphilly council and Blaenau Gwent council have already banned the lanterns and now the animal welfare charity is urging Newport and Torfaen councils to do the same. 

Sky lanterns – often known as Chinese lanterns – can harm wildlife, livestock and other animals by causing injuries that lead to suffering and a slow painful death. Animals can also eat balloons and choke on them. 

RSPCA Cymru has long highlighted the dangers associated with the use of sky lanterns, and promotes the use of harmless alternatives which prevent injury, suffering and fatality of animals.

Martin Fidler Jones, RSPCA Cymru’s political campaigns manager, said: “We are also pleased to see that the council is seeking a voluntary prohibition of release of sky lanterns and mass balloons from private venues, for example hotels, whilst conducting their proactive visits and inspections.”

“The fact that the majority of councils have joined our calls sends out a big signal about just how dangerous these things are.”

He added:“Newport and Torfaen have yet to introduce a ban – we are urging them to be a good neighbour to Monmouthshire and deliver an important message to animal welfare.” 

Cllr Phil Murphy, cabinet member with responsibility for estates, said: “The council has taken action today following independent research establishing that the release of sky lanterns and helium balloons poses a significant risk to crops, buildings and moorland as well as being a potential source of harm to livestock and creating litter. I urge other establishments and organisations in the county to follow the council’s lead.”

RSPCA Cymru is now calling on the nine other local authorities in Wales to follow councils that have recognised the danger and brought in a ban.

Please see rspca.org.uk/getinvolved/campaign/skylanterns.