As a tour operator with a high awareness for social responsibility, we only provide our clients with lanterns that fit the local governmental standards.
At the Chiang Mai CAD, we will use the traditional Dhammachai lanterns for you.
This kind of lantern, although large in size, is smartly designed: it has a short heat-proof wire attached to the small candle wick that is no longer than 30cm inside the approximately 90 cm-long diameter. The candle wick will likely quench out after floating up for about 10 minutes. And the heat-proof wire prevents fire or short circuit if the lanterns fall on the high-voltage power transmission cables. Using only natural and recyclable paper and bamboo, all the materials are biodegradable and will not cause pollution on the earth. It is approved by Thai Industrial Standards TIS808/2552.
As for the Loy Krathong, the lantern boats are made of banana leaves and filled with flowers, which are also biodegradable.
For safety and environmental consideration, please don't make your own lanterns or lantern boats or purchase non-standard ones.