East Dunbartonshire Council has banned launches of helium balloons and sky lanterns from all of its land and premises.
The council was previously contacted by charity Animal Concern, which is campaigning against these activities due to the risk presented to farm animals and wildlife as well as other environmental effects caused by these objects, and it is also widely agreed that such launches are a form of littering.
In addition to being a fire risk sky lanterns in particular are dangerous to animals which either become poisoned after eating debris or get trapped in their frames.
The campaign is broadly supported from organisations including the National Farmers Union Scotland, SSPCA and Keep Scotland Beautiful, as well as . Scottish Fire and Rescue.
Most other Scottish councils have already implemented similar bans. In East Dunbartonshire the ban will cover all of its own properties and also be incorporated into licensing policies for third parties seeking permission to hold events in the local authority area.
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