Manx News
Get the latest news from Manx.News
Wed, 11 Aug 2021
The Manx Government says a ban on the outdoor release of sky lanterns and helium balloons will safeguard wildlife, combat litter and prevent avoidable fires.
The Sky Lanterns and Balloons Prohibition Bill 2020 gained Royal Assent in July and means the sale and supply of the Chinse style lanterns – including online sales - is illegal.
It also prohibits the outdoor release of lanterns and helium filled balloons – with the exception of weather balloons – and means anyone doing so faces a fine of up to £500.
The Private Members’ Bill was introduced by Martyn Perkins MHK and has been welcomed by farmers, environmental and wildlife groups and the emergency services.
It has also been fully supported by the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture as it will safeguard wildlife, reduce litter including single-use plastic in the countryside and protect the Biosphere.
Mr Perkins, said: “Lanterns and balloons can entertain us briefly when they take off, but are an absolute disaster for wildlife, farm animals and marine life, when they come back down.
“Although the sale of sky lanterns has been prohibited here since 2015, these new legal powers go way beyond that and it is great news for our precious Biosphere.”
The legislation means the Island has moved ahead of the UK and joins countries such as Australia, Brazil and Germany in tackling the issue.
Fri, 29 Dec 2023
Fri, 29 Dec 2023
Fri, 29 Dec 2023
Fri, 29 Dec 2023
Fri, 29 Dec 2023
Thu, 28 Dec 2023
Thu, 28 Dec 2023
Thu, 28 Dec 2023
Wed, 27 Dec 2023
