While most lanterns are made of biodegradable material, some are made of plastic and styrofoam. When people put them into the water, it can be bad for the river, people or fish. Since people have become more aware that plastic is very bad for the environment, fewer people have used plastic. Many people who do not like Loi Krathong are not from Thailand. They don't think Thai people should celebrate Loi Krathong because it hurts the environment. But unfortunately, many holidays from countries all over the world can hurt the environment. For example, the fireworks from the 4th of July are bad for the air and cause more litter. Just because a culture does something that hurts the environment doesn't mean they should stop. It is very important, however, to be aware that something is hurting the environment and to do other things to help it. For example, the days after Loi Krathong, many communities host "clean-ups" to pick up any leftover trash from the Loi Krathong festival.
