Fireworks are a traditional part of many cultural and holiday celebrations.
Whether it is Chinese New Year, American Independence Day, or other festivals around the world, fireworks light up the sky with beautiful colors and patterns, bringing joy and excitement to spectators.
However, this dazzling display also has a darker side, as it poses significant environmental problems, particularly impacting air quality. Although fireworks are only set off for a short period, their impact on air pollution is considerable and cannot be ignored.
The primary components of fireworks include oxidizers, fuels, metal salts, and various chemical additives. When these components combust, they release a plethora of pollutants, including particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, and various heavy metals.
Particulate matter consists of suspended particles in the air with diameters of less than 2.5 microns (PM2.5) and 10 microns (PM10). These fine particles can penetrate deep into the respiratory system, causing respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems, and even increasing cancer risk.
Studies have shown that the concentration of particulate matter in the air increases significantly after fireworks are set off, with the peak typically occurring within a few hours of the display.
Data from the China Environmental Monitoring Center indicates that during the Spring Festival, the widespread use of fireworks and firecrackers causes a sharp rise in PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations, especially in large cities.
For instance, during the Spring Festival in Beijing, PM2.5 levels can soar to several times higher than usual, sometimes even exceeding World Health Organization (WHO) safety standards by dozens of times.
This short-term, high-concentration particulate matter pollution not only deteriorates urban air quality but also poses serious health risks to residents.
In addition to particulate matter, fireworks emit large quantities of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide. Sulfur dioxide is a colorless gas with a pungent odor that can irritate the respiratory system, leading to conditions such as asthma and bronchitis.
Nitrogen dioxide, a reddish-brown gas, also causes respiratory irritation and long-term exposure can decrease lung function and increase the risk of respiratory infections. During major festivals, when large-scale fireworks displays are common, the concentrations of these gases can spike, adversely affecting air quality.
The impact of fireworks on air pollution is not confined to urban areas. In regions with poor air circulation, such as valleys or low-lying areas, the effect can be even more pronounced. Pollutants can accumulate, rapidly deteriorating local air quality.
Additionally, pollutants from fireworks can be transported through the atmosphere, affecting distant areas. Research has shown that particulate matter and gaseous pollutants generated by fireworks can travel tens of kilometers or even farther, impacting air quality over a broad area.
In response to the significant environmental impact of fireworks, governments, and environmental organizations worldwide are actively seeking solutions.
Some countries and regions have implemented measures to restrict fireworks usage, such as designating specific times and places for displays or promoting low-pollution fireworks.
Low-pollution fireworks aim to reduce harmful emissions by using fewer toxic ingredients and adopting cleaner combustion technologies. Additionally, some places advocate for environmentally friendly alternatives, such as laser light shows or drone performances, which can achieve similar celebratory effects without environmental drawbacks.
While fireworks bring joy and excitement to celebrations worldwide, their environmental cost is significant. By raising awareness of the pollution they cause and promoting sustainable alternatives, we can balance the joy of these celebrations with the responsibility of protecting our planet.
Moving forward, it is crucial to adopt and support measures that minimize the environmental impact of fireworks, ensuring that future generations can enjoy both vibrant celebrations and a healthy, clean environment.
