PFJ 2021 ~ Fire the fireworks

Fireworks have delighted people all over the planet for centuries. And for that long they have also impacted the environment:

• Injuring and killing people and non-human animals in accidents.

• Causing fires.

• Producing smoke and dust containing metal particles and toxic chemicals that pollute not just the air, but also soils and water.

• Frightening wildlife, domestic animals, and also people.

• Contributing to the destruction of ecosystems through the extraction of the minerals that are needed to manufacture them.

• And now, creating plastic litter that is nearly impossible to remove.

All that impact for just a few minutes of human fun. It’s time we find more respectful ways to celebrate our traditions.

So, what can you do?

• Don’t attend fireworks displays – create your own alternative ways to celebrate.

• Write a letter to the editor of your local newspaper explaining why fireworks are a bad idea.

• Work with your local or state government to get a ban on fireworks.

• Spread the word about the awful unintended consequences of fireworks.