North Somerset Council has banned Balloons and sky lanterns from being released on its land.
The Marine Conservation Society, an internationally recognised charity for the protection of seas, shores and wildlife, has produced a pollution policy and position statement on balloons and sky lanterns, asking UK authorities to recognise their release as a form of littering and to ban all outdoor releases.
Their use has become commonplace at summer fairs, fundraising events and other celebratory occasions but a ban will apply to council-run events and those hosted by third parties.
Council leader Donald Davies said at the authority's last meeting on September 24 releasing them is a 'self-indulgent habit in this throwaway world'.
He said: "Environmental harm and animal welfare issues caused by sky lanterns and mass balloon releases are of concern to this council."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here