e-3311 (Environment)
Original language of petition: English
Petition to the House of Commons
- Inspired by House Bill 418 that passed unanimously in Illinois in March, going into effect in 2022 once it gets approved;
- banning the release of balloons and sky lanterns into the sky is needed in Canada as it is detrimental to the environment and our wildlife;
- Often found in waterways, more than 18,000 balloon pieces were found in the Great Lakes between 2016 and 2018 according to the Detroit Free Press;
- Wildlife may mistake it for food and accidentally ingest it;
- Sky lanterns are known for causing fires and injuring livestock;
- The Krefeld Zoo fire in Germany was caused by sky lanterns;
- Like Canada’s upcoming single-use plastic ban, this would be a great step in the right direction towards eliminating litter and microplastics in waterways;
- Some Canadian townships have already banned lanterns due to concern over starting fires (Muskoka Lakes, Dysart et al, Trent Lakes);
- Several states in the United States such as California, Florida and cities across the globe have banned the release of balloons; and
- While some people may argue that these actions help them let go of things, celebrate events or remember a loved one, there are many alternatives to do these things without harming the planet such as blowing bubbles, plant native trees or flowers, or use lights or candles.
- Open for signature
- May 18, 2021, at 10:33 a.m. (EDT)
- Closed for signature
- July 17, 2021, at 10:33 a.m. (EDT)
Only validated signatures are counted towards the total number of signatures.
Province / Territory | Signatures |
---|---|
Alberta | 127 |
British Columbia | 394 |
Manitoba | 54 |
New Brunswick | 23 |
Newfoundland and Labrador | 24 |
Northwest Territories | 12 |
Nova Scotia | 40 |
Nunavut | 2 |
Ontario | 1258 |
Prince Edward Island | 7 |
Quebec | 66 |
Saskatchewan | 35 |
Yukon | 5 |