Fireworks: A Spectacle That Leaves Scars

When the new year arrives, fireworks are set off all over the world to celebrate the beginning of a new year. While they are incredibly beautiful to watch, these fireworks, as spectacular as they are, also cast a dark shadow.

Research has shown that the noise and bright flashes produced by fireworks can startle up to 400,000 birds into flight. These birds, panicked in the dark night, lose their bearings and are highly likely to collide with nearby buildings or signs while flying. Since birds, unlike other wild animals, often inhabit urban areas, the consequences of this are significantly greater. Furthermore, New Year's fireworks typically take place on cold winter nights, and the energy expended by the birds during flight can lead to increased stress for them. For reference, the noise produced when fireworks are set off is approximately 150 dB, which is similar to the noise of an airplane taking off or landing.

The impact of the bright flashes and noise from fireworks can extend up to 10 km in radius. Creatures within this range are subjected to loud noises and bright flashes without any prior warning. Just like humans experience shock when they hear a sudden loud explosion or see a strong flash of light, the fireworks we enjoy can be a major shock to animals. In 2021, in Rome, after the New Year's fireworks, hundreds of dead birds were scattered across the streets.

The environmental impact of fireworks is not limited to this. The smoke produced during the detonation of fireworks causes fine dust and air pollution. Also, if fireworks are set off near the coast, there is a risk that the debris from the fireworks could flow into the sea. Fireworks utilize substances like potassium nitrate and aluminum, which can have detrimental effects on the human body. These substances can negatively impact our health and contribute to various respiratory illnesses.

Furthermore, the garbage left behind by people attending firework displays poses a significant issue. Large crowds attending firework events often fail to dispose of their waste properly, leading to mountains of trash. Even when individuals purchase and set off fireworks themselves, the firework debris becomes a problem. While firework debris may look like paper at first glance, it is not recyclable due to its gunpowder content.

Fireworks, while providing visual entertainment for humans, demand an excessive toll. They negatively impact both the environment and human health. It is time to reduce the use of fireworks. Nowadays, with technological advancements, drone shows have become an option. Of course, even drone shows can potentially harm flying birds. However, compared to fireworks, the harm caused by drone shows is considerably less.

People often set goals at the start of a new year. How about setting a goal for this year to refrain from watching fireworks or setting them off?