Glowskies make Chinese lanterns eco-friendly

It's become almost a ritual at outdoor parties these days to light, launch and watch a Chinese lantern drift off into the night sky. But with the fun and prettiness there has also come controversy, namely the potential for harm that the spent lanterns could have on the environment.

All the lanterns sold by Glowskies, however, are 100 per cent biodegradable, so once spent they will pose no harm to animals nor litter the landscape.

As their name suggests, this Dubai-based company specialises in decorative lighting, stocking an excellent selection of paper lanterns, hanging starlights and even illuminated flower pots, all of which can be used both indoors and outdoors.

We really like the candle lantern bags, which cost Dh45 for four (the heart design can be seen in this week's Six of the Best, page 8), and the lovely lotus flower floating lanterns (Dh220 for eight).

And if you really want to make someone's heart soar this Valentine's Day, there's even a giant red heart-shaped lantern ready to send to the stars. You can even have it personalised.

The range is available to buy from selected Dubai retailers or direct from the website, www.glowskies.com.