SINN Féin Councillor Tina Burke tabled a motion last week to Derry City and Strabane District Council (DCSDC) to discourage the practice of balloon/lantern releases and encourage alternative ways of marking events in the city and district.
She said “Whilst we understand the importance of marking events, and while balloon releases or lantern releases look well, the reality is that the aftermath of such events have a detrimental impact on the environment.
“Derry City and Strabane District Council has recently made a Climate Emergency Declaration.
#I believe it is important that we all work together to help the environment, rather than hinder it.
“Most balloon or lantern releases have been to raise awareness or commemorate the sad passing of a loved one.
“I fully recognise the importance of such initiatives and feel we should where possible explore more environmentally friendly ways to mark occasions such as tree planting, bubble or reusable banners.
“The onus is on every single one of us to do what we can to tackle the growing crisis that we face in terms of Climate Change.
“And any action the council can take to make Derry & Strabane more effective in doing this should be welcomed,” added Cllr Burke.
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