A plastic ring in sand (Image by Grzybowski, Adobe Stock)
Cornwall Council has unanimously approved a voluntary ban on the sale, purchase and use of plastic flying rings, following a motion brought by Councillor Rosie Moore at the Full Council meeting on Tuesday.
The move is aimed at protecting Cornwall’s marine wildlife - particularly seals - from injuries caused by discarded or misused flying rings.
Seals frequently become trapped in the rings, which can cut deeply into their skin and necks, leading to infection, severe pain, and often death.
Rehabilitation, when possible, can cost up to £15,000 per seal.
While the ban is voluntary and will not carry fines or penalties, Cllr Moore said she hoped it would prompt wide support from both retailers and the public after an online petition garnered more than 42,000 signatures.
“I’m absolutely delighted that members chose to support this motion,” she said.
The injuries these flying rings can cause to marine wildlife, and in particular seals, are utterly horrendous and I hope retailers and beachgoers will do their part to prevent unnecessary suffering.”
Councillor Loic Rich, Portfolio Holder for Environment and Climate Change, welcomed the motion and praised the community’s support. “This is a simple, practical step that reflects Cornwall’s deep care for our environment and marine life.
“The public response has been overwhelming, and this shows how powerful voluntary action can be when people understand the impact of their choices. We want everyone to enjoy our coastlines - but we also want to ensure the wildlife that makes Cornwall so special is protected for generations to come.”
The next steps will involve contacting local businesses to ask them to discontinue the products and working with partners to display posters on beaches to raise public awareness.
Press release issued on July 28, 2025