Festival of noise and pollution

Every Diwali, tradition, health and safety collide amidst celebrations.

November 2001 - The factfile here on health and other hazards resulting from the bursting of
firecrackers during the festival seasons is provided to India Together by Toxics Link.
Major recent developments around the country

1. In September 2001, the Supreme Court passed orders seeking adherence to anti- noise
pollution norms and standards for fire crackers before the festival season.
2. The Delhi Pollution Control Committee sent a notification to the Delhi Police informing
them about the type of fire-crackers that violate the prescribed limit of 125 decibels at a
distance of 4 meters from the point of bursting. It prohibits setting of crackers in the
silence zones (that is the areas within 100 meters of hospitals, educational institutions,
courts and religious places). Firecrackers can be burst only between 6pm to 10 pm.
3. The Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) amended "noise pollution" defined in
the Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986 and banned the manufacture, sale and use of
fire-crackers generating noise levels exceeding 125 dB (AL) or 145 dB (C) notified in
October 1999. But the amendment remains unimplemented till now.
4. The police authorities have been authorized to enforce the rules regarding noise pollution.
The Delhi High Court order seeking cracker manufacturers to print the noise level
generated by them on the wrapper by November 2000 remains unimplemented. We have
banned 20 types of crackers that exceed 125 decibels. Any person who manufactures and
stores them will face prosecution, says Keshav Dwivedi, Deputy Commissioner Police.
The police plans to work closely with Delhi Pollution Control Committee to help police
detect the noise levels. People can complain at these control rooms, he added.
5. About 80 per cent of the fire-works sold in Delhi come from Sivakasi in Tamil Nadu
while the rest comes from Uttar Pradesh. In Chennai, the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control
Board has taken cognizance of fire-crackers' menace and has issued orders prohibiting the
crackers violating decibel limits. The Board has also asked Fire Services and Rescue
Operations Wing to ban 'Rockets' -a fire- cracker responsible for accidents.
6. Maharashtra government strictly enforced Union Ministry of Environment and Forests
(MoEF) Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000 and Supreme Court's
order during Navaratri.
7. Ninety Five percent of the crackers violate the noise and pollution norms, says a study by
Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)-National Physical Laboratory. The four
companies that were studied are Rajaratnam Fireworks Industries, Cheeta Fireworks,
Standard Fireworks and Sri Kaliswari Fireworks. The results have been sent to State
Pollution Control Boards (SPCB) and the MoEF but are yet to be made public.
8. "Unless noise pollution standards are enforced at the place of manufacture, it is
impossible to regulate them", says D K Biswas, chairman, CPCB. "We have sent
directions to the Controller of Explosives to limit the number of licenses to sell fire
crackers alongwith missives to all SPCBs, Biswas said. Media has a role to play. The
response from the electronic media was totally unsatisfactory last year. Most channels
aired short films on anti-cracker awareness as and when it suited them. They were too
busy generating money from commercial ads to do their bit towards a social cause.
Residents of Delhi have not adhered to the deadlines", he added.

9. The Department of Explosives under the Ministry of Industry and Commerce ought to
regulate the grant of licenses to manufacturers of explosives, say experts. MoEF also
shifts the responsibility of enforcing the decibel standards on Department of Explosives.
10. The Gujarat High Court heard a noise pollution PIL after Navratri.
11. The West Bengal Pollution Control Board met on October 9 to minimize noise level
during Pujas in the aftermath of apex court imposed cracker curfew hour.
12. On Diwali day the noise levels touch a deafening 140 decibels, says Madhu Saxena of
Voice, a non-governmental orgaisation based in Delhi.
13. Delhi's Chief Minister launched anti-cracker campaign " This Diwali have a cracking
time without Crackers" and its Health minister leads an anti-cracker rally seeking
abolition of child labour in the manufacture of crackers.
14. The Haryana Pollution Control Board is seeking measurement of noise pollution in
different districts on 12, 14 and 16 November. Panipat has made all arrangements for its
measurement, says, O. P. Dahiya, District Pollution Officer, Panipat.
15. The Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board (APPCB) organized a ten-day campaign
beginning from November 5 to bring awareness on the impact of noise pollution due to
fire crackers.
16. More than 25 NGOs and 100 schools participated to take a oath against noise pollution.
17. The Tamilnadu Fireworks and Amorces Manufacturers Association (TANFAMA) claims
that the restriction-90 decibels (AI)- imposed by the state pollution control board on firecrackers and other sound -polluting items was "incorrect and unscientific". The imposed
ban goes against the provisions of the Explosives Act, 1884 and Explosives Rules 1983,
says K Mariappan, secretary, TANFAMA.
18. Gitanath Ganguly, a PCB member quotes Supreme Court order dated 27th Septemeber,
2001 which said, " this order shall not imply any restriction on the union government,
union territories or state governments in case they wish to further reduce the noise level
of so advised".
Laboratory tests:

To study the chemical composition, particularly of metallic and non-metallic components of

crackers, Toxics Link got some samples of sparklers ("phuljari" in Hindi and "mathappu" in
Tamil) and pots ("anar" in Hindi and "pusvanam" in Tamil) analysed at the Bombay Natural
History Society Laboratory, Mumbai. The following were the chief findings of the laboratory
tests.
1. The results showed presence of highly toxic heavy metals like cadmium and lead in
addition to other metals like copper, manganese, zinc, sodium, magnesium and potassium
in the fire-crackers.
2. Both nitrates and nitrites of few of these metals were present. Both these radicals are
oxidising agents that are a ready source of oxygen in the process of combustion.
3. Oxides of sulphur in the form of sulphate and phosphorous in the form of phosphate were
present in the samples. The mean levels of cadmium in the crackers analysed were 5.2
mg/100g. Anar and wire showed 6 and 8mg/100g, respectively.

4. The mean level of lead was 462 mg/100g with a maximum in green sparkle showing
850mg/100g. Magnesium was found in huge quantities when compared to other metals
like copper, manganese and zinc. The mean levels of magnesium was 2622mg/100g and
of copper was 744mg/100g. Zinc was the least among the various metals detected with a
mean level of 324mg/100g.
5. Four acidic radicals --nitrate, nitrite, phosphate and sulphate-- were also detected. The
proportion of nitrite, phosphate and sulphate in the crackers was almost similar and
ranged between 1160 to 1420 mg/100gm, while nitrates which are strong oxidising
agents, were found in considerable amounts when compared to the other three. Their
mean levels were 1624mg/100g.
6. Among these, oxides of sulphur, phosphorous and nitrogen are very corrosive and highly
acidic while carbon monoxide, one of the oxides of carbon is an extremely poisonous gas
whose presence cannot be detected by our sensory system as it is odorless.
7. Carbon monoxide combines more than 200 times as readily as oxygen, so
that low concentration levels have adverse health effects.
Health Effects

8. The level of suspended particles in the air increases alarmingly during Diwali, causing
eye, throat and nose problems. Although most of us do not feel the immediate impact,
these problems can later develop into serious health hazards, according to Dr Rajesh
Chawla of Apollo hospital, New Delhi.
9. Suspended particulate matter (SPM) exposure to the level of 100 ppm results in headache
and reduced mental acuity. The effects are more pronounced in people with heart, lung or
central nervous system diseases. Sulphur dioxide is readily soluble and dissolves in the
larger airways of the respiratory system. This stimulates a contraction at 2 to 5 parts per
million (ppm). At higher concentrations severe contraction restricts the breathing process.
10. Nitrogen dioxide is less soluble and so penetrates to the smaller airways and into the
lungs. They destroy the linings of the respiratory surface, thereby reducing the intake of
oxygen for the body. These cause respiratory allergies like asthma especially to the
susceptible population.
11. Causes throat and chest congestion, and are likely to aggravate problems for those
already suffering from coughs, colds and allergies.
12. High decibel level results in restlessness, anger, fidgetiness, impulsive behaviour and
over-reaction to situations. Most crackers used have more than 80 dB noise that can cause
temporary hearing loss, says K K Agarwal, chairman, Health Care Foundation, New
Delhi
13. Scientific data to suggests that noise pollution can cause leads to hearing loss, high blood
pressure, heart attack and sleep disturbances. Normal decibel level for humans is 60 dB.
An increase by 10 decibels means double the noise volume and intensity, says Agarwal.
14. Children, pregnant women and those suffering from respiratory problems suffer the most
due to excessive noise. It results in making them hyperactive or withdrawn, says Dr
Jitendra Nagpal, psychiatrist, Vidyasagar Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences
(VIMHAS), Delhi.
15. Allergic bronchitis, acute exacerbation of bronchial asthma, chronic bronchitis,
ephysema, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases), allergic rhinitis, laryngitis,

ssinusitis, pneumonia and common cold increase durinf this times, reports Dr Naarendra
B Rawal, consultant chest physician and pulmonologist. The number of his patients
doubles during Diwali. The firework is one of the provoking factors for childhood
bronchial asthma, he adds.
The Toxics Link study pointed out that there is threat of exposure even from the unburnt material.
These particles are very small (1 to 5 microns in size) and contain metals along with carbon.
Harmful effects of Chemicals Used in Crackers:

Copper: Poison to humans by ingestion. Inhalation of copper dust and fume causes
irritation in the respiratory tract. Absorption of excess copper results in "Wilson's disease"
in which excess copper is deposited in the brain, skin, liver, pancreas and myocardium
(middle muscular layer in the heart).

Cadmium: Can be poisonous to humans by inhalation, ingestion, intraperitonial, subcutaneous, intra-muscular and intravenous routes. Cadmium absorption can damage the
kidneys and can cause anaemia. It is a potential human carcinogen. Cadmium causes
increased blood pressure and also a disease called "Itai--Itai", which makes bones brittle
resulting in multiple fractures.

Lead: Affects the central nervous system in humans. A poison if ingested, moderately
irritating. It can cause cancer of lungs and kidneys and an experimental teratogen. When
heated it can emit highly toxic fumes. In inorganic form, it is a general metabolic poison
and an enzyme inhibitor. Young children can suffer mental retardation and semipermanent brain damage by exposure to lead. Incase of lead levels in blood, the
disturbing feature is that the natural levels are very close to the lowest safety limits.

Magnesium: Poison by ingestion, inhalation of magnesium dust and fumes can cause
metal fume fever. Particles embedded in the skin can produce gaseous blebs and a gas
gangrene. Dangerous fire hazard in the form of dust or flakes when exposed to flames.
Manganese in the air has adverse effects on humans. Poisoning takes the form of
progressive deterioration in the central nervous system.

Manganese: An experimental carcinogen and mutagen. Human toxicity caused by dust or

fumes. The main symptoms of exposure are languor, sleepiness, weakness, emotional
disturbances, spastic gait and paralysis.

Potassium: Dangerous fire hazard. If there is any confinement, an explosion can occur.

Sodium: In elemental form, it is highly reactive, particularly with moisture with which it
reacts violently and therefore can attack living tissue. When heated in air, it emits toxic
fumes of sodium oxide. Dangerous fire hazard when exposed to heat and moisture.

Zinc: Human skin irritant and effects pulmonary system. Pure zinc powder is non-toxic to
humans by inhalation but difficulty arises from oxidation (burning), as it emits zinc
fumes. Zinc is perhaps the least toxic of all heavy metals, in fact an essential element in
animal and human nutrition, still they become toxic when absorbed in excess. Zinc
stimulates the sensation of vomiting. An exposure to 150 mg of zinc can stimulate the
process of vomiting in an adult male.

Nitrate: Large amounts taken by mouth can have serious and even fatal effects. The
symptoms are dizziness, abdominal cramps, vomiting, bloody diarrhoea, weakness,
convulsions and collapse. Small repeated doses may lead to weakness, general
depression, headache and mental impairment. Also there is some implication of increased

cancer incidents among those exposed. Highly inflammable and on decomposition they
emit highly toxic fumes.

Nitrite: Large amounts taken by mouth may produce nausea, vomiting, cyanosis, collapse
and coma. Repeated small doses can cause a fall in blood pressure, rapid pulse,
headaches and visual disturbances. When heated, emit highly toxic fumes of NOx.

Phosphorous in PO4: Poison to humans. Dangerous fire hazard when exposed to heat or
chemical reaction. Poison by inhalation, ingestion, skin contact and subcutaneous routes.
Ingestion affects the central nervous system. Toxic quantities have an acute effect on the
liver and can cause severe eye damage.

Sulphur in SO4: Poison to humans by inhalation an eye, skin and mucous membrane
irritant and corrosive, an experimental carcinogen. It chiefly affects the upper respiratory
tract and the bronchi. It may cause edema of the lungs or glottis, and can produce
respiratory paralysis. Source: Hazardous Chemicals Desk Reference, N.Irving Sax and
Richard J.Lewis

The conflict between competing interests in society - safety, health, and calm on the one hand,
and tradition on the other hand, has evolved over time, and the health effects are receiving
greater attention. Roshan Lal, owner of the New Royal Fireworks set up in 1928 in Sadar Bazar
says his family has been in the trade of crackers since the days of Prthviraj Chauhan but now the
business is not profitable. A combination of political will and public support to limit health and
environmental hazards, and at the same time maintain memorable traditions, is needed to restore
Deepawali to its pristine flavour.
Madhumita Dutta
November 2001
The factfile on health and other hazards resulting from the bursting of firecrackers during the
festival seasons is provided to India Together by Toxics Link.
- See more at:
http://indiatogether.org/environment/articles/diwali.htm#sthash.ko7mNxcs.dpuf

http://www.revistas.unam.mx/index.php/atm/article/view/19485
Air pollution from fireworks during festival of lights (Deepawali) in
Howrah, India - a case study
B. THAKUR, S. CHAKRABORTY, A. DEBSARKAR, S. CHAKRABARTY, R. C. SRIVASTAVA

Abstract
Fireworks display during festive celebrations can cause acute short term air
pollution. Deepawali the festival of light is celebrated in India, every year during
October or November with great fireworks display. Concentration of air pollutants
such as SPM (suspended particulate matter), PM10, PM2.5, SO2 y NO2 were
monitored for six consecutive days during Deepawali in Salkia, a densely populated
residential area near Kolkata, India, for assessing the impacts of fireworks on
ambient air quality. The pollutant concentrations as recorded on Deepawali were
found to be several times higher (6.44 times for SPM, 7.16 times for PM10, 5.35
times for PM2.5, 1.73 times for SO2 and 1.27 times for NO2) compared to a typical
winter day value. The results indicated the huge contribution of fireworks on the
pollutant levels. The particulate concentrations on Deepawali exceeded its
respective 24 hour residential standards by several times (11.6 times for SPM, 22.3
times for PM10, and 34.3 times for PM2.5). Concentrations of metals like Ba, Cu, Cd,
Pb, Hg, Al in collected PMPM2.5 were found to be increased by many times on
Deepawali (56.72, 79.00, 16.67, 14.86, 12.00 and 6.26 times, respectively)
compared to the previous day. The probable health impact of this huge though
short-lived deterioration of the ambient air quality is estimated through Monte
Carlo's simulation in terms of increase in relative risk of mortality and morbidity in
exposed individuals and found to be extremely high. It suggests some controls on
fireworks during festive celebrations.

Full Text: PDF

Atmsfera Volumen 28 No. 1, enero-marzo, 2015, es una publicacin trimestral editada por la
Universidad Nacional Autnoma de Mxico, Ciudad Universitaria, Delegacin Coyoacn C.P.
04510, Mxico D. F., a travs del Centro de Ciencias de la Atmsfera, Circuito de la
Investigacin s/n, Ciudad Universitaria, Delegacin Coyoacn, C.P. 04510, Mxico D. F.
Telfono (+52 55) 5622-4074,
http://www.revistas.unam.mx/index.php/atm, editor@atmosfera.unam.mx. Editor responsable
Carlos Gay Garca. ISSN en trmite.Responsable de la ltima actualizacin de este nmero,
Seccin Editorial del Centro de Ciencias de la Atmsfera, Claudio Mario Amescua Garca,
Circuito de la Investigacin s/n, Ciudad Universitaria, Delegacin Coyoacn, C.P. 04510,
Mxico, D. F., fecha de la ltima modificacin 1 de enero de 2015.
Las opiniones expresadas por los autores no necesariamente reflejan la postura del editor de la
publicacin. Se autoriza la reproduccin total o parcial de los textos aqu publicados siempre y
cuando se cite la fuente completa y la direccin electrnica de la publicacin.

http://www.ppsthane.com/blog/effects-of-fireworks-diwali dated 08.09.2015 at

From Darkness to Light or from light to Darkness Diwali is called as festival of lights.
It is very widely celebrated festival in India. Usually Diwali festival falls between
October-November of Gregorian calendar. It has been celebrated from ancient time
as mentioned in Ramayana and Mahabharata mythologies. Diwali Celebration (from
Darkness to Light)Effects of Fireworks Effects of Fireworks in Diwali It is celebrated
by cleaning and decorating homes, visiting relatives and exchanging gifts, Sweets
etc. It is believed that Buying gold in Diwali is a good sign. Many people do pooja in
these days in their homes. Roads and homes are lighted /decorated by oil lamps
and festive lights. And most importantly fireworks are set off by children for
celebrations. The commonly used types of fireworks in celebrations are Rockets,
Roman Candles, Sparkles, and Wheels etc. Effects of Fireworks on Environment
(from light to darkness) Air Pollution On this auspicious occasion unknowingly
harmful gases and toxic substances released to environment by bursting fireworks
such as Barium, Cadmium, Sodium, Mercury, Nitrate and Nitrite. These are called as
Air pollutants. Also RSPM level goes high as small particles emitted by bursting of
fireworks. RSPM means Respirable Suspended Particulate Material. Also need of
electricity goes high in this period. To overcome shortage of electricity majorly
electricity generated by using diesel, Coal etc. that also causes air pollution. Read
more how to reduce particulate matter to reduce pollution Noise Pollution Bursting
of fireworks not only causes air pollution but also Noise pollution. Also because of
happiest festival many people use loudspeakers, loud musical instruments and
advertisements that causes noise pollution. Level of noise level can go beyond 125
dB which is as loud as Military jet aircraft take-off, whereas government limits Noise
level at 55dB in daytime and 45dB at night for residential area. These type of noises
are very harmful for new-born babies. Read here how Noise or sound level is
monitored ? Dry Waste With happiness it also brings Dry waste like papers, plastics,
firework covers. Massive amount of non-degradable dry waste generated in Diwali
celebration. It causes Soil pollution as less space for dumping ground in major cities.
Health effects of Fireworks In these five days Fireworks are handled by kids and due
to their poisonous nature many children fall ill. Poisonous gases may cause fever,
Skin irritation, vomiting, Effects of Fireworks on lungs, insomnia, heart, asthma and
bronchitis. Also many children face accidents due to mishandling of fireworks and it
causes burning, cutting. Also it has been observed that mortality and morbidity rate
increased in Diwali period because of SPM, RSPM and other harmful gases released
in environment. Loud noise of fireworks causes Temporary deafness, permanent
Eardrum rupture, trauma and hypertension. Learn Why and how Noise Impact
Assessment is required for New or existing projects? Other effects of Fireworks Also
these fireworks made by people and children are exposed to poisonous metals like
lead, mercury, Nitrate and Nitrite. Due to this they face health issues and die in
early stage of their lives. Also due to high demand of fireworks small kids are also
work for 12 hrs in a day for fireworks companies before Diwali. Alternate ways to
celebrate Diwali We should think twice before buying fireworks in Diwali. Is this the
only way to celebrate Diwali? Instead of spending too much on fireworks and
considering effects of fireworks on health and environment we can buy gifts, books,
gadgets or cloths which are less harmful for nature as compared to firecrackers. We
can donate books or clothes for poor students. Also can conduct various
competitions on environmental awareness. Pollution free firecrackers are available
but they are very costly and cant fulfil the demand. In U.S. after studying effects of
it on human health they have shifted to laser shows instead of using traditional
firecrackers . From darkness to light or from light to darkness Before using fireworks
we should ask ourselves that are we actually going from darkness to light by using
them or from light to darkness?
- See more at: http://www.ppsthane.com/blog/effects-of-fireworks-diwali

http://www.backcountryattitude.com/toxic_
fireworks.html dated 08.09.2015 at 18:50
Fireworks - Cheap Thrills with Toxic
Consequences
Pollution from Fireworks is an Unnecessary Risk to Our Personal and
Environmental Health
The Polluting Patriot -- How Fireworks Pollute -- The Toxic Elements -- Research
Fireworks Alternatives -- More Thoughts on Fireworks -- References

Why Celebrate those Special Occasions by Polluting?

Is poisoning the air and water a patriotic way to recognize the 4th of
July??
Is unnecessary air pollution a good way to ring in the New Year??

Do you consider yourself environmentally conscious and responsible??

You might not know that all those colorful explosives used to celebrate special
occasions.... (your firecrackers, skyrockets, Roman candles and yes even those socalled "harmless" sparklers)... pose a serious environmental and health danger from
heavy metals and other toxic firework fallout. So the next time you are about to set
off or buy some cheap fireworks or even attend an outdoor fireworks display, ask
yourself....... Is a few minutes of pyrotechnic entertainment really worth
needlessly polluting the environment?

What's fun about the pollution from fireworks?

How Fireworks Cause Pollution

Fireworks contribute to polluting or damaging our planet in various ways throughout their life
cycle.

Manufacturing: Raw materials and energy are used to create the final
firework product. Firework ingredients often come from elements that need to
be mined from the earth. Mining is not exactly environmentally friendly.
Minerals then need to be processed and isolated... often with chemicals.
Fireworks use plastic plus paper & cardboard (which kills trees) and are all
made at factories that pollute.

Transportation: Firework components are transported to the firework

assembly plant, finished fireworks are transported to their various distribution
centers and stores. Transporting may include planes, boats, and trucks. I
don't need to tell you the pollution that vehicles cause. And don't forget that
the consumer drives to purchase the fireworks, sometimes hundreds of miles
to another state to bypass local restrictions.

Combustion:
o

Air Pollution: The smoke from fireworks consists mainly of fine toxic
dusts (particulate matter) that can easily enter the lungs. This
represents a real threat for people with asthma or multiple chemical
sensitivity (MCS). Smoke from fireworks combustion may contain a
mixture of sulfur-coal compounds, traces of heavy metals, and other
toxic chemicals or gases. The combustion cloud can contain harmful
fumes such as ozone, sulfur dioxide and nitric oxide. Smoke from
consumer fireworks is of most concern because they are released at a
low level which makes inhalation more likely compared to professional
displays. Additionally, in this time where the issues of climate change
and global warming are being presented with a sense of urgency, we
need to be concerned about the greenhouse gases fireworks produce,
which include Carbon dioxide (CO2) and ozone.

Water Pollution: Fireworks fallout can contaminate water supplies

and residue on the ground can be carried away by rain and end up in
our lakes, rivers, or oceans.

Noise Pollution: Fireworks can be loud and the vibrations can travel
far. In the middle of the night fireworks often disturb people trying to

sleep. Fireworks can exceed 140 decibels and noise at 85 decibels or

above can damage hearing. Some people also argue the noise from
fireworks scares pets and wildlife like birds, etc.

Accidents: In 2000-2004, fireworks started an estimated 32,300 reported

fires per year, including 2,700 building and vehicle fires. More fires are
reported on the 4th of July than any other day of the year [1].

For the color effect of fireworks, toxic heavy metals like barium, aluminum, lead, mercury salts,
antimony, copper, and strontium can be used in firework compositions. Outdated heavy metals
that have been used in the past include rubidium and cadmium. Some toxic elements are
supposedly not used in fireworks anymore like lead compounds, chlorates, and mercury as
mercurous chloride (calomel), but some firework chemical outlets still sell some of these
ingredients, they can still be seen in some pyrotechnic chemical lists, and homemade fireworks
makers still sometimes talk about using them.

Many fireworks are imported from China which is scary because they have a proven
track record of cutting corners by using cheaper, more toxic materials. Some of the
metals also have radioactive isotopes... hopefully they aren't being used in any
fireworks. The American Fireworks Standards Laboratory (AFSL) has established a
testing and certification program for Chinese and U.S. fireworks to determine if they
are being produced according to AFSL Standards (which meet all U.S. federal
requirements). There is a list of prohibited toxic chemicals in the standards but
unfortunately participation in the program is voluntary for manufacturers and
importers. Firework shipments that pass standards only assure that one random
sample from the lot has been tested and met all requirements [2]. Will you trust the
quality of your air to China??
The Toxic Elements of Fireworks - Pick Your Poison

Toxic Element

Fireworks
Usage

Toxic Effect of Fallout Dust

& Fumes

Aluminum

brilliant whites

Contact dermatitis, bioaccumulation

Antimony sulfide

glitter effects

Toxic smoke, possible carcinogen

Arsenic
compounds

Used as colorants.
Sadly still out
there. [3]

Toxic ash can cause lung cancer, skin

irritation and wart formation.

glittering greens

Poisonous. Fumes can irritate

respiratory tract. Possible radioactive
fallout. [4]

Barium Nitrate

Copper compounds blues

Polychlorinated dioxins and

dibenzofurans. [5] Can bioaccumulate.
Cancer risk.

Hexachlorobenzen
e (HCB) [5]

Persistent environmental toxin. Is a

carcinogen, mutagen and a

Use was supposed

to be banned

globally.

reproductive hazard [13].

Lead Dioxide /
Nitrate / Chloride

oxidizer

Bioaccumulation, developmental
danger for kids & unborn babes, may
remain airborne for days, poisonous to
plants & animals

Lithium
compounds

blazing reds

Toxic and irritating fumes when burned

Mercury
(Mercurous
chloride)

chlorine donor

Toxic heavy metal. Can bioaccumulate.

Nitric oxide

fireworks
byproduct [6]

Toxic by inhalation. Is a free radical

Nitrogen dioxide

fireworks
byproduct [6]

Highly toxic by inhalation. SIDS risk

[8].

Ozone

fireworks
byproduct [7]

Greenhouse gas that attacks &

irritates lungs

Perchlorate Ammonium &

Potassium

propellant /
oxidizer

Can contaminate ground & surface

waters, can cause thyroid problems in
humans & animals

Potassium Nitrate

in black powder

Toxic dusts, carcinogenic sulfur-coal

compounds

Strontium
compounds

blazing reds

Can replace calcium in body. Strontium

chloride is slightly toxic.

Sulfur Dioxide

gaseous byproduct Acid rain from sulphuric acid affects

of sulfur
water sources, vegetation & causes
combustion
property damage. SIDS risk [8].

Fireworks Research
A case study has shown that within 1 hour of fireworks displays levels of Strontium
in the air increased 120 times, Magnesium 22 times, Barium 12 times, Potassium 11
times, and Copper 6 times more than the amount present in the air before the
event. Strontium was found to be the best tracer in this study because it measured
very high during the event and much lower at other time intervals which indicated
that it was mostly a result of the fireworks display. [9]

Another study found that firework events brought air pollution spikes in suspended
particles, Nitric oxide (NO), Sulfur dioxide (SO2), and created and dispersed an
aerosol cloud hosting a range of metallic elements. The researchers found that
although the "recreational pollution" from fireworks is transient in nature, the
pollutants are highly concentrated and add significantly to the total yearly metal
emissions and the particles are on average small enough to be easily inhaled which
poses a health risk to sensitive individuals. [10]

Researchers have found that fireworks can create a burst of ozone which is an
extremely reactive greenhouse gas molecule that can attack and irritate the lungs.
The ozone is believed to be caused by ultraviolet light released by chemicals in
fireworks... which in this study were sparklers. [7]

A 3 week study in London recorded two major festivals celebrated with pyrotechnic
events and found that they were marked by increased gas phase pollutant levels of
Nitric oxide (NOx) and Sulfur dioxide (SO2), elevated PM mass concentrations, as
well as trace metal concentrations, specifically Strontium (Sr), Magnesium (Mg),
Potassium (K), Barium (Ba), and Lead (Pb). These changes in air quality were then
related to the oxidative activity of daily PM samples by assessing their capacity to
drive the oxidation of physiologically important lung antioxidants. Because of the
elevated PM concentrations caused by firework activity and the increased oxidative
activity of this PM source, the researchers believe more work needs to be done in
examining if exposure to firework derived PM is related to acute respiratory
outcomes. [11]

Another study from 2010 attempts to estimate the probable health impact of
exposure to the pollution caused by fireworks. Using risk data from epidemiological
studies conducted in USA, they estimated that when exposed to air pollution from
fireworks the relative risk of cardiovascular mortality would increase as high as
125.11% and the relative risk for cardiovascular morbidity was found to increase
175.16% over a regular winter day. The authors conclude that further studies on
control measures for firework displays are needed to help reduce the probable
health hazards to the general public. [12]

Fireworks Alternatives

How about we protect our health and the health of our outdoor environment
by switching to an environmentally friendly laser light show?

How about a block party to celebrate?

A stunt kite show at night with some LED's would be cool.

Try watching the stars or organize an outdoor movie.

Some people are organizing community drum circles and drumming instead
of lighting fireworks.

Indoor fireworks projectors are small devices that can be used indoors that
produce convincing reproductions of firework displays as well as simulating
the noise of real fireworks.

Electronic fireworks display lamps produce colorful explosions of light all night
long without the pollution or noise of real fireworks.

Electronic pyrotechnics don't use explosives either. Electronic blasts can form
a canopy up to 25 feet in the air that rain down glitter, confetti, rose petals or
even candy.

Just imagine all the possible more meaningful and beneficial ways we could
use all the money spent on fireworks that wouldn't pollute our environment.

If you Must...

If fireworks must go on then displays should use air-launch technology, which

utilizes compressed air to launch the fireworks instead of gunpowder, in
combination with fireworks with low-gunpowder formulations. There is talk of
new shells that use "biodegradable plastic" but what remains to be seen is if
they are 100% non-toxic and leave no nano-plastic residues after breakdown,
plus we still need to know what conditions they require to biodegrade.

Avoid Chinese made fireworks because of their pattern of using banned or

more toxic chemicals without regard for the safety of the rest of the world.

Low-smoke pyrotechnics produce practically none of the smoke or ash that

traditional black powder fireworks do. Although they are being tagged as
environmentally friendly or "green fireworks" the combustion byproducts still
contain carbon dioxide which is a harmful greenhouse gas and also trace
amounts of toxic metal salts. In addition ammonium perchlorate could still be
used as an oxidant which still has the potential to contaminate water
supplies. In a positive note less heavy metal salts are needed to produce the
color effects. Unfortunately fireworks will never be eco-friendly but will be
subject to greenwashing that distracts people with good intentions from the
overall negative environmental impacts.

Cheap fireworks give inexpensive thrills but what about the pollution???

Fireworks - Cheap Thrills or Head for the Hills?

Personally I take the health risk from fireworks very seriously. Around the 4th of July
I try to always be hiking or camping and seeking shelter outdoors... as far away
from the noise and toxins as possible. If for some reason I can't be on the trail

backpacking then I'll hole up indoors next to my air filter. I think we need to become
more socially responsible in regards to fireworks. The smoke from consumer
fireworks take away peoples right to breathe clean air. This is ironic because the 4th
of July is Independence Day, yet people who are sensitive to the clouds of smoke
that cover metropolitan areas are held prisoner indoors as they flee the toxic
firework fumes.

We also need to be more environmentally responsible as well. When you buy fireworks you are
buying the whole pollution cycle... from the beginning to the end of the product. We should be
concerned about how all the pollutants related to fireworks can affect our environment and our
health. Fireworks not only pollute the air and water with heavy metals, etc. but they also cause
noise pollution and physical litter. Does anyone enjoy picking up stray fireworks (bottle rockets,
etc.) from their yard, garden, etc? When I hear about fireworks safety it makes me laugh because
the pollution from these colorful displays of toxic exploding materials doesn't seem safe to me. It
really seems to me that the cheap thrills that fireworks provide are just an empty distraction and
really have nothing to do with the actual true recognition of a particular holiday. Besides the big
4th of July holiday in the US, in the UK on the fifth of November... Guy Fawkes Night (aka
Bonfire Night) is frequented with fireworks, and there is also the environmental disaster that is
Diwali over in India.

Take a Stand Against Fireworks

Write, call, or meet your local or state officials and tell them your concerns
regarding outdoor air pollution and noise pollution from fireworks.

The Clean Air Act permits state and local governments to enact laws relating
to the prevention and control of outdoor air pollution.

Pollutants discharged by fireworks also need to be regulated in accordance

with the Clean Water Act. Recently some environmental groups have caused
the cancellation of some fireworks shows held over water, after threatening
organizers with a Clean Water Act lawsuit for lacking the appropriate permits.

Boycott outdoor fireworks displays and encourage others to do the same.

Have your local police department enforce any laws pertaining to fireworks.

Educate others by sharing the pollution dangers of fireworks.

Fireworks are truly hazardous to the environment.

References
[1] "Fireworks." National Fire Protection Association, April 2007
[2] American Fireworks Standards Laboratory Standards, September 2006, page I
[3] Steinhauser, Georg. "Heavy metals from pyrotechnics in New Years Eve snow."
Atmospheric Environment Volume 42, Issue 37, December 2008
[4] Steinhauser G and Musilek A. "Do pyrotechnics contain radium?" Environ Res.
Lett. 4 034006 July-September 2009
[5] O. Fleischer. "Release of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans by
setting off fireworks." Chemosphere Volume 39, Issue 6, September 1999
[6] Russell, Michael S. The Chemistry of Fireworks. 2000
[7] Attri, Arun K. "Microclimate: Formation of Ozone by Fireworks." Nature Volume
411, June 28, 2001
[8] Dales, Robert. "Air Pollution and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome." Pediatrics Vol.
113 No. 6 June 2004
[9] Vecchi, Roberta. "The Impact of Fireworks on Airborne Particles." Atmospheric
Environment Volume 42, Issue 6, February 2008
[10] Moreno, Teresa. "Recreational atmospheric pollution episodes: Inhalable
metalliferous particles from firework displays." Atmospheric Environment Volume
41, Issue 5, February 2007
[11] Godri KJ, Green DC. "Particulate Oxidative Burden Associated with Firework
Activity." Environmental Science & Technology, October 1, 2010
[12] B. Thakur. "Air pollution from fireworks during festival of lights (Deepawali) in
Howrah, India - a case study." Atmsfera, Vol 23, No 4, 2010

[13] "Hexachlorobenzene (HCB) in Fireworks - Guidance Note" The Environment

Agency, September 2010

http://www.mnn.com/earth-matters/translating-uncle-sam/stories/are-fireworks-bad-for-theenvironment date 08.09.2015 at 17:20

The rockets' red glare during a fireworks show can fill onlookers with patriotism and awe.
Unfortunately, it can also fill them with particulates and aluminum.
Fireworks get their flamboyance from a variety of chemicals, many of which are toxic to
humans. From the gunpowder that fuels their flight to the metallic compounds that color their
explosions, fireworks often contain carcinogenic or hormone-disrupting substances that can seep
into soil and water, not to mention the lung-clogging smoke they release and plastic debris they
scatter.
But fireworks shows are woven into the fabric of the U.S. they were popular even before the
country won its independence and it's not like they happen every day. Is an occasional
peppering of perchlorates really a big deal compared with all the industrial pollution U.S.
waterways have been dealt over the years?
Maybe not, but it's still not entirely clear how fireworks affect environmental or human health.
While they haven't been linked to any widespread disease, it's not always easy to pin down why
someone developed hypothyroidism, anemia or cancer.
What we do know is that, although they're fleeting and infrequent, fireworks shows spray out a
toxic concoction that rains down quietly into lakes, rivers and bays throughout the country. Many
of the chemicals in fireworks are also persistent in the environment, meaning they stubbornly sit
there instead of breaking down. That's how mercury from coal emissions winds up in fish, and
it's how DDT thinned bald eagles' eggshells in the '70s. There's scant evidence that fireworks are
having similar effects, but the possibility has been enough to raise concern in many communities.
Here's a look at what's in fireworks, how they might affect people, and what kinds of alternatives
exist:
Perchlorates and particulates
For fireworks and other pyrotechnics to blow up, they need to
blow up something usually a blend of charcoal and sulfur
fuel. They also need an ingredient that can inject oxygen to
speed up the explosion, historically relying on potassium nitrate.
These three chemicals are mixed together into a sooty substance
known as gunpowder.
When a spark hits gunpowder, the potassium nitrate feeds
oxygen to the fire, helping it quickly burn the charcoal-sulfur
fuel. This produces volumes of hot, rapidly expanding solids
and gases that can be used to fire a bullet, explode an artillery
shell or launch a Roman candle.
The original blends of black powder can be a bit too unstable
and messy for some uses, though, so the potassium nitrate is
often replaced by perchlorates, a family of chemicals all featuring a central chlorine atom bonded
by four oxygen atoms. Two types in particular potassium perchlorate and ammonium
perchlorate have become the go-to oxidizers of the pyrotechnics industry.
Perchlorates may have introduced a new problem, though: In high enough doses, they limit the
human thyroid gland's ability to take iodine from the bloodstream, potentially resulting in
hypothyroidism. The thyroid needs iodine to make hormones that control a variety of body
functions, and people running too low on these hormones can develop a wide range of disorders.
Children, infants and especially fetuses suffer the worst from hypothyroidism, since thyroid
hormones are crucial for normal growth. Perchlorates have also been shown to cause thyroid
cancer in rats and mice, but scientists believe humans are less vulnerable to this effect.

Low doses of perchlorates don't seem to hurt healthy adults volunteers who took 35
milligrams for 14 days or 3 milligrams for six months showed no thyroid-related problems, and
studies of workers exposed to similar amounts for years also failed to uncover any major side
effects. Plus, perchlorate advocates often point out that it should theoretically all be incinerated
in the sky before any can fall down to contaminate the ground.
But a 2007 study of an Oklahoma lake following fireworks displays overhead found that
perchlorate levels spiked more than 1,000 times above the baseline level for 14 hours after a
show. While the maximum concentration detected was 44.2 micrograms less than 1 milligram
per liter, the study was still the most concrete evidence yet
that fireworks release perchlorates into waterways.
Another study by the Massachusetts Department of
Environmental Protection found perchlorate levels up to 62
micrograms per liter at eight groundwater-monitoring wells on
the Dartmouth campus, near where fireworks are regularly fired.
EPA spokesman Skip Anderson cautions that these weren't
health-effects studies, and points out more data are needed to determine how great a risk
perchlorates pose in surface water. Still, he says, their results "suggest that some perchlorate in
fireworks is not combusted and therefore can wind up in the environment."
The smoke from fireworks' burned charcoal and sulfur fuel also contains particulate matter that
can get lodged in people's lungs, an immediate danger for those with asthma or chemical
sensitivities. Prolonged exposure to similar airborne particles from diesel exhaust has also been
shown to cause lung cancer. Air-quality monitors reportedly spike for about three hours after a
fireworks show.
One positive of both perchlorates and particulates is that they most likely don't pose a long-term
threat. Particulates fade away after a few hours, and perchlorates dissipate days or weeks after
being released. Unfortunately, the same can't be said about some other chemicals that help light
up the sky.
Metallic compounds
In addition to gunpowder, fireworks are packed with heavy metals and other toxins that produce
their sparkling shower of colors. Like perchlorates, the exact effect of fireworks' heavy-metal
fallout is still mainly a mystery, but scientists do know that the metals themselves can wreak
havoc in the human body.
Strontium (red): This soft, silvery-yellow metal turns red when it burns, and it's extremely
reactive with both air and water. Some strontium compounds dissolve in water, and others can
move deep into soil and groundwater. While low levels of stable strontium have not been shown
to affect human health, the metal can be dangerous at high doses. The
main health threat posed by non-radioactive strontium is for children,
since it can impair their bone growth.
Aluminum (white): Since aluminum is the most abundant metal in
Earth's crust and one of humanity's most widely used avoiding
exposure is almost impossible. Virtually all food, water, air and soil
contain some amount of aluminum the average adult eats about 7 to 9
milligrams of the silvery-white metal every day in food. It's generally
safe at these levels, but it can affect the brain and lungs at higher concentrations. People and
animals exposed to large amounts of aluminum have performed poorly on mental and physical
tests, and some studies suggest aluminum exposure may lead to Alzheimer's disease, although
that connection has yet to be proven.

 Copper (blue): Fireworks' blue hues are produced by copper

compounds. These aren't very toxic on their own, but the copper jumpstarts the formation of dioxins when perchlorates in the fireworks burn.
Dioxins are vicious chemicals that don't occur naturally; they're the
unwelcome byproducts of certain chemical reactions, one of which
happens in blue fireworks. The most noted health effect of dioxin
exposure is chloracne, a severe skin disease with acne-like lesions mostly
on the face and upper body. Dioxin doesn't stop there, though the
World Health Organization has identified it as a human carcinogen, and
it's also been shown to disrupt hormone production and glucose
metabolism.
Barium (green): Fish and other aquatic organisms can accumulate
barium, which means it can move up the food chain. The silvery-white
metal naturally bonds with other elements to form a variety of
compounds that all have different effects none are known to be
carcinogenic, but they can cause gastrointestinal problems and muscular
weakness when exposure exceeds EPA drinking water standards. Symptoms may include
vomiting, diarrhea, breathing trouble, changes in blood pressure, numbness around the face,
general muscle weakness and cramps. High levels of barium exposure
can lead to changes in heart rhythm, paralysis or death.
Rubidium (purple): This soft, silvery metal is one of the most
abundant elements on Earth. It burns purple, melts to a liquid at 104
degrees Fahrenheit and is highly reactive with water, capable of igniting
fires even far below the freezing point. It hasn't been reported to cause
any major environmental damage, but it can cause skin irritation since it's
so reactive with moisture, and it's moderately
toxic when ingested, reportedly able to replace
calcium in bones.
Cadmium (various): Used to produce a wide
range of fireworks
colors, this mineral is also a known human
carcinogen. Breathing
high levels of cadmium can seriously damage the
lungs, and consuming
it can fluster the stomach, often resulting in
vomiting and diarrhea.
Long-term exposure can lead to kidney disease,
lung damage and
fragile bones. Plants, fish and other animals take
up cadmium from the
environment, meaning that any released into waterways from a fireworks show can be passed up
the food chain.
Alternative fireworks
The most eco-friendly alternative to fireworks is to forgo explosions altogether go to a parade,
go fishing, grill out, camp out or help out.
If you must see the sky festively illuminated, you might want to try a laser light show, which
create dazzling displays of color without launching dangerous chemicals into the air. They may
consume lots of energy, but so does the rampant production of single-use fireworks. Here's an
example of lasers in lieu of fireworks on the Fourth of July, from Stone Mountain, Georgia, in
2008:

http://www.angelfire.com/co3/NCFS/science/environmentalimpact.html dated 08.09.2015

at 17:30 Switzerland data

National Campaign for Firework Safety

Our aim is to promote the safe use of fireworks

Firework Pollution
2001, Umwelt-Materialien Nr. 140, BUWAL, Fireworks - Environmental impact and safety
risks
Summary
Fireworks consist of a wide range of products with a highly variable composition. The available
data on fireworks (safety, environmental effects) are often incomplete. This applies also to
consumption figures, which can only be estimated. Every year, some 1,450 tonnes of fireworks
are set off in Switzerland.
About 1000 tonnes of this consists of materials such as tubes, structural parts and packagings
(cardboard, wood, plastic), and 360 tonnes of the pyrotechnic components. These consist of
approx. 240 tonnes of black powder (gunpowder) and 120 tonnes of chemicals to produce
effects. These effects mixtures contain metallic compounds that may have an impact on the
environment or human health.
The possible impacts of fireworks on the environment and human health may be summarised
as follows:
1. Accidents: Accidents can occur if fireworks are handled incorrectly during sale and use:
Safety regulations for the sale of fireworks in Switzerland are contained in the Ordinance on
Explosives. Regulations for the use of fireworks are published by the industrial association, the
Swiss Central Fireworks Office (SKF).
International surveys have shown that the accident rates associated with fireworks are around 2 13 accidents with injury to persons per 100,000 inhabitants. Minors are disproportionately
represented among the injured. This group is thus exposed to a higher risk. (Corresponding
statistics do not exist for Switzerland, but may be approximately the same as those from abroad. )
Every year, fireworks cause fires. The resulting damage to property amounts to 0.6% of the
total fire damage in Switzerland.
2. Noise: At the distances where people watching fireworks usually are, noise levels can exceed
the impuls noise limit according to SUVA guidelines. The nuisance of firework noise should not
be ignored. For noise-sensitive groups, this nuisance can be substantial, since it causes anxiety
and corresponding stress reactions. There are no studies of this effect.
3. Air pollution: In the combustion of fireworks, the main component gunpowder gives rise to
the solid reaction products such as potassium carbonate, potassium sulphate and potassium
sulphide, together with unreacted sulphur. The reaction products from effects mixtures are
generally solids and consist of metal oxides and, less often, chlorides. The air pollution caused
by firework reaction products is well documented by measurements in Switzerland and abroad.
Fine particulates are notable in reaching record short-term pollution levels. Evaluation of data
from Swiss gauging stations shows that over a short period, such high levels of respirable fine
particulates (PM10) may be reached that the 24h average values may exceed the 50 g/m 3
threshold stipulated in the Ordinance on Air Pollution Control (OAPC). This value is laid down
for health reasons and may be exceeded only once a year. International surveys - in more
polluted areas - show that susceptible people may be measurably affected.

Dioxins can be released during the combustion of copper containing fireworks. Laboratory
experiments, which investigated the extent of dioxin formation caused by setting off various
pyrotechnic devices, and measurements taken during Bonfire Night in Great Britain where both
bonfires and fireworks are burned as in Switzerland, indicate that bonfires are a far more
significant source of dioxin than pyrotechnic devices, especially when waste wood and other
wastes are burned.
4. Pollution of other environmental compartiments and indirect effects: The firework
reaction products that are emitted are deposited and thus enter the soil, crops and, in the case of
fireworks over water, standing waters. This pollution has not been measured yet. Therefore, the
deposition of firework-related elements must be estimated from model calculations.
Ecotoxicological and toxicological benchmarks for all firework-related elements were taken
from the literature. The present assessment shows that firework-related depositions do not cause
problematic soil and water contents, and the evaluations suggest that indirect effects (uptake
through the food chain, soil ingestion by children) are also not critical.
5. Waste: Some 1000 t additional waste are annually generated by fireworks.
Conclusions:
According to model calculations, the resulting soil and water pollution due to deposition of
fireworks related elements is negligible. The assumed deposition rates should be verified, at a
minimum by measuring barium as a marker in the fallout or in environmental samples such as
grass or dust from sealed areas.
Since non-quantifiable fractions of firework reaction products also occur in the shells as slag,
farmers and parents are advised to remove visible firework residues from fields and playgrounds
after use.
Air pollution, particularly associated with large fireworks displays, cannot be ignored.
Immissions of respirable fine particles (PM10) are at the level of injury to sensitive persons.
There is some evidence that large fireworks displays may lead to high PM10 concentrations.
Thus OAPC immission threshold could be exceeded if major pyrotechnic displays are performed
on 1st / 2nd August and 31st Dec. / 1st Jan, respectively. We should point out that, according to
NABEL measurements, the 24h average for PM10 is currently been exceeded on 20 to 77 days
per year. Putting things into perspective, a general ban of fireworks devices is not intended.
Organizers of large public displays and local authorities should not allow pyrotechnicians
exceeding the SUVA impulse noise limit. In the case of consumer firework devices the
WFD/ZSP 2 restricts the noise pressure levels of different types of firework devices. The risk of
damage to health is therefore minimal if they are used correctly. Persons sensitive to noise
however may experience anxiety (nuisance). The extent to which the population, as well as pets,
livestock and wild animals are affected, cannot currently be assessed. In comparison with other
sources of disturbance the exposure is of short duration.
Finally the safety risk posed by fireworks due to the use should not be underestimated. The
existing Swiss safety regulations and recommendations regarding retail and use of fireworks are
sufficient to obtain an acceptable safety level. There is still some scope for
improvement/potential lie in the provision of information, to raise consumer awareness of the
risk of accidents. Children and adolescents should be the primary target group, since they are
disproportionately involved in accidents.

http://environment.about.com/od/healthenvironment/a/toxicfireworks.htm dated 08.09.2015 at

17:36
Dear EarthTalk: Do fireworks celebrations cause any significant pollution?
David Hiebert, Scottdale, PA
Perhaps it should come as no surprise that the fireworks displays that go on around the U.S.
every Fourth of July are still typically propelled by the ignition of gunpowdera technological
innovation that pre-dates the American Revolution itself. And the fall-out from these exhibitions
includes a variety of toxic pollution that rain down on neighborhoods from coast to coast, often
in violation of federal Clean Air Act standards.
Fireworks Can Be Toxic to Humans
Depending on the effect sought, fireworks produce smoke and dust that contain various heavy
metals, sulfur-coal compounds and other noxious chemicals. Barium, for instance, is used to
produce brilliant green colors in fireworks displays, despite being poisonous and radioactive.
Copper compounds are used to produce blue colors, even though they contain dioxin, which has
been linked to cancer. Cadmium, lithium, antimony, rubidium, strontium, lead and potassium
nitrate are also commonly used to produce different effects, even though they can cause a host of
respiratory and other health problems.
Fireworks Contribute to Environmental Pollution
The chemicals and heavy metals used in fireworks also take their toll on the environment,
sometimes contributing to water supply contamination and even acid rain. Their use also deposits
physical litter on the ground and into water bodies for miles around. As such, some U.S. states
and local governments restrict the use of fireworks in accordance with guidelines set by the
Clean Air Act.
Fireworks Add to Worldwide Pollution
Of course, fireworks displays are not limited to U.S. Independence Day celebrations. Fireworks
use is increasing in popularity around the world, including in countries without strict air
pollution standards. According to The Ecologist, millennium celebrations in 2000 caused
environmental pollution worldwide, filling skies over populated areas with carcinogenic sulphur
compounds and airborne arsenic.
Disney Pioneers Innovative Fireworks Technology
Not usually known for championing environmental causes, the Walt Disney Company has
pioneered new technology using environmentally benign compressed air instead of gunpowder to
launch fireworks. Disney puts on hundreds of dazzling fireworks displays every year at its
various resort properties in the U.S. and Europe, but hopes its new technology will have
beneficial impact on the pyrotechnics industry worldwide. The company has made the details of
new patents it has filed for the technology available to the pyrotechnics industry at large with the
hope that other companies will also green up their offerings.
Do We Really Need Fireworks?
While Disneys technological breakthrough is no doubt a step in the right direction, many
environmental and public safety advocates would rather see the Fourth of July and other holidays
and events celebrated without the use of pyrotechnics. Parades and block parties are some
obvious alternatives. Meanwhile, laser light shows can wow a crowd without the negative
environmental side effects associated with fireworks.

http://time.com/3943702/fourth-of-july-fireworks-pollution/
dated 08.09.2015 at 18:13
Levels of tiny pollutants are 42% higher on the holiday than
on a typical day, one study says
More

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Chemicals May Be Just As Dangerous As What They ReplaceMigrant Crisis Turns Island Into
'Pressure Cooker' NBC NewsTale of Two Queens: Elizabeth to Break Longevity Record NBC
NewsHuge Great White Shark Dies After Beaching on Cape Cod NBC News
Fireworks on the Fourth of July dramatically increase air pollution, boosting exposure to
potentially dangerous pollutants for millions of onlookers, according to a recent study in the
journal Atmospheric Environment.
When people think of air pollution, they think of other kinds of thingssmoke stacks,
automobile exhaust pipes, construction sites, says study author Dian J. Seidel, senior scientist
for climate measurements at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). I
dont think most people think of fireworks.
The level of particulate matter, or small pollutants like dust, dirt and soot present in the air,
increased by 42% on average across the U.S. on the Fourth of July, according to the study. Air
conditions are at their worst between 9 and to 10 p.m. on the day of the holiday. The researchers,
who looked at data from 315 sites across the country, found that ten of the sites met a threshold
deemed unsafe by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) when sustained for a prolonged
period of time.
Extended exposure to particulate matter can lead to coughing, wheezing and even lead to an
early death for people with pre-existing conditions like heart or lung disease, according to the
EPA.
Not all fireworks are created equal, and a number of factorsincluding weather patterns,
location of the fireworks and the size and number of showsmay determine levels of firework
pollution, according to Seidel. One site in Ogden, UT, saw nearly a five-fold increase in
particulate matter on the Fourth compared to an average day.
The researchers also found that many of the most-polluted sites coincide with the countrys most
populous metropolitan areas. Los Angeles, Chicago and Seattle, for example, all experienced
levels of particulate matter that exceeded the EPAs safety threshold.
Photos From 'America's First Family of Fireworks'

Avoiding firework pollution can be difficult, if not impossible, health experts say. People in the
immediate vicinity of fireworks will experience the most pollution. From there, the particles will
disperse throughout the area, hardly leaving any place untouched. People sitting downwind from
the fireworks will receive the brunt of pollution, says Joel Schwartz, a professor of
environmental epidemiology at Harvard University. Indeed, the EPA advises children and the
elderly, along with people with heart disease, asthma and other lung diseases, to consider
watching upwind from fireworks. But given how long particles linger, it may be difficult to avoid
firework pollution altogether if you live in the vicinity of a fireworks show.
Particles tend to stay suspended in the air for days, says Schwartz. Theyre going to drift
whichever way the winds goes, so its not just going to be the people sitting in the park watching
the fireworks.
But while the increase in pollution due to fireworks may sound frightening, most public health
experts say those levels would need to be sustained for much longer before widespread health
problems emerge. The EPAs rules discount particulate matter from fireworks when evaluating
dangerous pollution levels, according to a statement from an agency spokesperson. Its one
day, says Schwartz. Your risk went up a little bit, but I dont think its a major public health
issue.
In fact, even Seidel says shes planning to watch the fireworks this year. Yes, I will be
watching, she told TIME, from a safe distance and upwind.

http://legal-planet.org/2013/07/03/bombs-bursting-in-airenvironmental-regulation-of-fireworks/ dated 08.09.2015

at 18:29
Bombs Bursting in Air: Environmental Regulation of
Fireworks

Is your local fireworks display environmentally friendly?

It seems only fitting as we approach the Fourth of July holiday to turn our attention to the
environmental impacts and regulation of fireworks. As it turns out, our age-old patriotic tradition
of exploding packages of toxic chemicals in the air is not without its environmental drawbacks.
Although much is still unknown about the environmental consequences of fireworks displays, it
is clear that fireworks can adversely impact water quality, air quality, biological resources, and
possibly even human health through debris, noise, and toxic contaminant pollution. Fortunately,
there are many ways regulators and citizens can mitigate the adverse impacts of fireworks.
In order to understand the environmental impacts of aerial fireworks displays you first have to
appreciate the basic mechanics. The heart of a colorful firework is the color shell, which
contains a bunch of chemical pellets arranged to emit a particular color and design. Commonly
used chemicals include: potassium chlorate, potassium perchlorate, potassium nitrate,
sodiumbenzoate, sodium oxalate, ammonium perchlorate, strontium nitrate, strontium carbonate,
sulfur, charcoal, copper oxide, polyvinyl chloride, iron, titanium, shellac, dextrine, phenolic
resin, and aluminum.

Firework Shell
The pellets are packed in a paper or plastic casing, and stuffed inside the shell along with a
burst charge, usually made of black powder. The shell is then packed in a metal or plastic
tube called a mortar. Upon lighting the black powder charge, the shell is launched from the
mortar up to 200-1000 feet in the air, where it explodes. In addition to color shells, a fireworks
display may include salute shells, which produce the loud percussive noise we associate with

fireworks shows. Salute shells are packed and launched similarly to color shells, and also
explode at high altitude.
The short-term environmental impacts of fireworks include debris, smoke, noise, and light.
Most of the components of a firework device will burn up in the atmosphere, but some portions
of the casing and residue typically are carried by the winds and fall back to earth. Debris also
can result from duds or misfires. Debris from fireworks launched off an ocean, river, or lake
coast can impact water quality or litter sensitive habitat areas if not properly cleaned up
following the show.

Firework smoke can produce dangerous fine particulate matter

(PM 2.5) pollution that significantly impacts air quality. The metals and chemicals in fireworks
make firework smoke more toxic than other kinds of smoke. Firework smoke can contribute to
lung inflammation, heart attacks, stroke, asthma attacks, and reduced lung function. Spikes in
particulate matter have been documented during and immediately following fireworks shows.
Such spikes can cause localities to exceed state or federal air quality standards for PM 2.5. In
some cases, particulate concentrations after a fireworks display nearly double the federal
maximum. Research shows that in urban areas, firework pollution clouds can drift over cities,
resulting in elevated levels of PM 2.5 for multiple days following a fireworks display. Fireworks
displays in urban areas may be particularly harmful because the urban atmosphere is already
polluted. In May 2013, EPA issued interim guidance to help air quality agencies manage
exceptional air quality events such as large fireworks displays in order to maintain National
Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) under the Clean Air Act.
The noise and light pollution accompanying fireworks shows can negatively impact wildlife, as
illustrated by the 2006-2010 controversy over the fireworks display in the Town of Gualala in
Mendocino County, CA. On Independence Day weekend 2006, following a fifteen-minute
fireworks display near the Gualala River estuary and Gualala Point Island, which is part of the
California Coastal National Monument, the CA Coastal Commission received complaints that the
explosions had disturbed nesting shorebirds and harbor seal haul-out sites. This prompted the
U.S. Bureau of Land Management and Fish & Wildlife Service to study the 2007 Gualala
fireworks. The federal agencies published a report documenting a high rate of Cormorant nest
abandonments during the period surrounding the display, citing that the abandonments likely
resulted from fireworks disturbance. Any eggs or juvenile chicks left in the abandoned nests
were consumed or killed by predators. In addition, the CA Department of Fish and Game noted
that
Brown Pelicans, an endangered species, use [Gualala Point Island] as a roost at night. Marbled
Murrelets, another endangered species, are also observed in the ocean near Gualala at dawn and
dusk every year at this time. Both of these endangered species, and the nesting birds, could
potentially be impacted by the fireworks display. . . .

(Ultimately, upon learning that Gualala was planning a 2008 fireworks display without seeking a
permit, the Commission proposed a cease-and-desist order. Gualala sued to prohibit the
Commission from issuing the order. The trial court ruled for the Commission, finding that
fireworks constitute development subject to the permitting requirements of the CA Coastal
Act. The Court of Appeal affirmed in Gualala Festivals Comm. v. Cal. Coastal Commn, 183
Cal. App. 4th 60 (2010), and the CA Supreme Court subsequently declined review.)
Fireworks also have the potential to cause fires. According to the National Fire Protection
Association (NFPA), in 2011, fireworks were the cause of an estimated 17,800 fires resulting in 8
deaths, 40 injuries, and $32 million in property damage. The NFPA further reports that more US
fires are reported on Independence Day than any other day of the year, accounting for 2/5 of all
fires on that day. In dry areas, firework-related fires have the potential to develop into wildfires.
As a result, in 2012, Colorado Governor Hickenlooper issued an executive order banning private
fireworks displays, and more than 40 Colorado cities canceled Fourth of July fireworks displays.
Additionally, there may be long-term water quality and human health impacts associated
with the toxic components like lead, barium, ammonium perchlorate, and sulfur dioxide in the
firework shell, although the long-term effects of these chemicals is not well understood.
Fireworks are often launched near waterbodies like lakes or along ocean coasts, allowing
combustion residue to fall into surface waters. Chemical pollutants in the residue can adversely
impact water and sediment quality. Water quality monitoring reports following fireworks
displays have documented elevated levels of water pollutants such as arsenic, copper, and
phosphorous. Consequently, in 2007, a California Regional Water Quality Control Board issued
San Diegos Sea World the nations first National Pollution Discharge Elimination System
(NPDES) permit regulating the discharge of fireworks under the Clean Water Act. SeaWorld
launches fireworks every night during the summer months. The NPDES permit limits Sea World
to a maximum of 150 fireworks shows per year, and specifies mitigation and monitoring
requirements to deal with dangerous chemical residue that may fall into Mission Bay.
Specifically, permit mandates three monitoring periods per year during Sea Worlds largest
displays, at which time Sea World must monitor water quality, sediment quality, and bottomdwelling organisms for 41 pollutants.
The firework-related pollutant perchlorate (NH4ClO4) is of particular concern to Eastern lake
states. Perchlorate is both naturally occurring and man-made. In fireworks, perchlorate acts as a
propellant. Scientists do not fully understand the health and environmental impacts associated
with perchlorate water pollution, but perchlorate has been demonstrated to interfere with thyroid
function in humans, affecting metabolism and growth. It is clear that fireworks displays can
result in perchlorate accumulation in surface and ground waters, resulting in perchlorate
concentration spikes of 24 to 1028 times the mean baseline value following a fireworks display.
These perchlorate spikes potentially can be a problem for drinking water sources. In 2006, the
Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection determined historic fireworks displays
were the likely cause of perchlorate contamination in two of its nine water supply systems
showing high perchlorate levels. Currently, only California and Massachusetts have state
perchlorate standards. EPA currently is working to develop Safe Drinking Water Act standards
for perchlorate in primary drinking water supplies. They are expected to be released sometime
this year.

Eutrophication
Although phosphorus typically is only included in modern-day fireworks in trace amounts,
phosphorus residue can accelerate eutrophication of lakes. In states like New Hampshire, where
lakes are already nitrogen-loaded from sources like fertilizers, even small amounts of additional
phosphorus can be a cause for concern. Eutrophication is linked to algal and cyanobacteria
blooms that can negatively impact drinking water quality, fisheries, wildlife, and human health.
There are many ways regulators can mitigate the adverse impacts of fireworks. The first,
most important step is to require permits or registration of all public and private firework
displays so that environmental regulators can keep track of the number of shows, where they
occur, and what types of fireworks are used.
Where firework permits are required, regulators can use permit conditions to mitigate potential
adverse impacts to the environment and human health. Regulators should require that displays
be located away from environmentally sensitive areas like marine sanctuaries, habitats for
endangered species, migratory bird pathways, and nesting areas. Similarly, localities or entities
sponsoring large public displays should be required to implement measures to ensure public
viewers keep away from environmentally sensitive areas. Fireworks also should be timed to
avoid common spawning, nesting, and roosting seasons.
Proper monitoring procedures before and after the display are key to alerting officials of any
environmental threats. Permits can provide for third-party monitoring (e.g., by the Audubon
Society or state agency officials). The monitoring report should identify a baseline for wildlife
abundance and behavior in the event vicinity several hours prior to the fireworks display and
identify any adverse impacts to wildlife during and for several hours after the display. Follow-up
monitoring should occur at regular intervals for several weeks following the event. Based on the
monitoring, officials can recommend modifications to the event for future years to mitigate any
negative impacts to wildlife.
A fireworks permit also should require clean-up and restoration following the display to
remove any fallen debris. Debris can be further controlled by subjecting fireworks displays to
limitations on the total number of aerial shells detonated, requirements that all plastic labels and
wrappings be removed from devices prior to launch, and prohibitions on devices that include
more than a specified percentage of non-biodegradable components.
To better protect water quality, regulators should prohibit private firework explosions on
sidewalks or roadways, where contaminants and debris can end up in storm drains. In addition,
for large fireworks displays, regulators should require sponsors to contain runoff in cases where
water is used to control misfires or duds.
To address the air quality impacts of fireworks, officials can monitor air pollutant concentrations
before and after fireworks displays and warn the public of any dangerous conditions. To reduce

smoke and perchlorate pollution, regulators can require that all fireworks be perchlorate-free.
For instance, in 2004, Disney Corporation began using compressed air to launch all fireworks at
Disneyland, resulting in a reduction in particulate air pollution and perchlorate water
concentrations. Researchers also have working to develop alternative propellants that use
nitrogen-based materials instead of perchlorates.

And of course, in place of fireworks, Fourth of July

revelers can opt for laser light shows or other alternative displays of patriotism.
Happy Fourth of July!