Buzz
Whether you're celebrating New Year's Day, Guy Fawkes Night, Diwali, or any other holiday (or no event in particular), fireworks offer a dazzling way to celebrate. However, traditional fireworks can have a detrimental impact on the environment. Igniting them releases harmful chemicals into the air, such as carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and sulphur dioxide, while also disturbing wildlife. Luckily, there are several more environmentally-friendly options worth exploring.
Steps
Opt for eco-friendly fireworks.
While eco-friendly fireworks aren't entirely eco-friendly, they do emit approximately 50% fewer emissions. Moreover, they are often smokeless, sulphur-free, and/or devoid of chlorine-based formations. Unfortunately, these options are presently pricier and more challenging to procure.
- White fireworks are generally more eco-friendly compared to colored ones.
Attend firework displays rather than setting off your own.
While fireworks used in firework displays also contribute to air pollution, having a single display viewed by a large crowd is preferable to numerous individuals setting off their own firework displays. These displays also typically feature higher quality fireworks.
- If there's no display nearby, consider watching a neighbor's or friend's display instead. This reduces the number of fireworks being set off. If you're hosting your own firework display, invite others to watch it to minimize the number of fireworks being set off.
- Large displays still have an environmental impact, especially due to the high number of fireworks involved. Some individuals may be organizing a boycott of these large displays due to their environmental impact. If this applies, you might consider participating in the boycott.
Choose silent fireworks.
While silent fireworks still emit harmful chemicals into the environment, they don't disturb wildlife and produce less noise pollution. These types of fireworks can also be less distressing for individuals with certain disabilities, such as PTSD and autism.
Enjoy a laser or light show.
Although lasers and lights consume electricity, this electricity can be sourced from renewable sources, making them cleaner alternatives to firework shows. Additionally, lasers can be reused multiple times. Laser or light shows provide the same excitement as fireworks and are a viable alternative.
- Many laser shows may require an admission fee.
Opt for glow sticks.
Glow sticks offer a fun alternative to fireworks, particularly appealing to children. While most glow sticks are not eco-friendly due to their single-use plastic composition, there are sustainable options available from certain brands.
- Glow sticks can be molded into various shapes.
- It's possible to recharge glow sticks to make them glow again, which is more sustainable than discarding them and purchasing new ones.
Participate in other visually-striking activities.
Explore other nearby events, such as parades and concerts. During special occasions like Independence Day or Lunar New Year, there are typically various events happening throughout the day(s). If there are no other events, consider hosting your own celebration.
Try out light-up toys.
Light-up toys are commonly available at various events, such as circuses and firework displays. While they're typically made of plastic, they're designed for repeated use. Many of these toys also produce sounds and are particularly effective in low-light conditions. You can also use disco lights at home.
- Consider using rechargeable batteries for these toys.
Adorn yourself in vibrant or neon hues.
Celebrate vibrant occasions like Diwali by dressing in bright colors. This can enhance the festive atmosphere and literally add more brightness to events. Choose colorful attire with intricate patterns, or opt for reflective or glow-in-the-dark outfits for increased visibility. While not a direct replacement for fireworks on its own, combining it with other festivities can heighten the enjoyment of the event.
- You can also apply face paint for the celebration.
Illuminate with lights.
The possibilities with lights are infinite. Lights can be placed indoors and outdoors, and there are numerous options available, including fairy lights, LEDs, and projectors. You can choose from a wide range of colors and designs. Consider opting for solar-powered lights, especially for outdoor use.
- Outdoor light displays also mean that more people can enjoy them.
Blow bubbles.
Bubbles typically pose minimal harm to the environment. You can create bubble solution at home using water, glycerin, and dishwashing liquid. Opt for environmentally-friendly dishwashing liquid to make your bubble mixture more eco-friendly.
- Blow bubbles outdoors to prevent any indoor damage.
Shower confetti.
Confetti can be eco-friendly. You can craft your own using colorful recyclable paper (just ensure it's cleaned up afterward). Alternatively, choose confetti tubes that are 100% recyclable. For outdoor confetti tossing, opt for biodegradable confetti. Confetti creates vibrant displays, reminiscent of fireworks. You can create your own displays and select your preferred colors.
- Dried rose petals serve as excellent biodegradable confetti alternatives that you can create at no cost.
Pointers
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If you're hosting a bonfire, stick to burning natural materials.
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You can enjoy firework displays from the comfort of your home by watching from your window.
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You can urge policymakers to introduce legislation to prohibit fireworks in your vicinity or substitute them with eco-friendly options.
Cautions
- Several fireworks and alternatives can pose risks to individuals with photosensitive epilepsy.
