Innovation leads to brighter future for Taiwan lantern

TAIPEI - The pastime of flying lanterns goes back centuries in China, where they are symbols of peace and good fortune, but that tradition is now under attack.

Traditional sky lanterns are made of paper and bamboo frames. After rising 300 to 500 meters, the flame suspended at the bottom goes out and the lantern falls.

This makes them "flying garbage" and a "safety threat", say critics who want them abolished.