What You Need To Know
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The Fourth of July is a holiday of traditions, and fireworks are the grand finale. Despite all their beauty while lighting up the night sky, though, fireworks can take a toll on the environment.
Fireworks and the Environment
According to the American Pyrotechnics Association, over 16,000 fireworks displays typically take place across the nation on Independence Day. Fireworks explode over the Washington Monument at the National Mall during the Independence Day celebrations in Washington, D.C. on Monday, July 4, 2022.
Eco-Friendly Fireworks Do Exist
Standard fireworks have two "explosions": one launches the firework into the sky, and the second makes the stunning bursts of color that follow. Both explosions are a result of a combustion reaction, usually involving gunpowder, an oxidizing agent, and for the second explosion, different metals that contribute to the color and sound of the boom. Despite the beauty of the second blast, the byproducts released from the series of explosions are quite harmful to the environment.
The Dilemma
The near-ground smoke from pyrotechnics can significantly alter air quality in the hours that follow. Smoke from fireworks lingers over the Chicago skyline in 2005. Attempts to create "cleaner" fireworks are out there but come at a greater expense. With numerous fireworks shows per week, Disney invested in fireworks that launch via condensed air instead of gunpowder.
A Quieter and Cleaner Approach
Standard fireworks come with hazards, even when the weather is ideal. However, when conditions are not ideal, the risks are enhanced. Fireworks could be a problem in extremely dry areas; the embers that fall to the ground after their vibrant blast are known to spark new wildfires year after year, damaging homes and more. Many places in the West continue to replace fireworks displays with LED drone shows instead.
Conclusion
Eliminating the use of old school fireworks may not go away entirely, but the transition to establish new Independence Day traditions is underway. Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the impacts of fireworks on the environment?
A: Fireworks can release harmful byproducts into the air, affecting air quality and wildlife.
Q: Are there eco-friendly alternatives to traditional fireworks?
A: Yes, there are "cleaner" fireworks that release less smoke and other harmful substances, as well as LED drone shows.
Q: What are the benefits of LED drone shows?
A: LED drone shows eliminate the potential fire threat and air quality issues that immediately arise in the wake of a fireworks show, and come with less noise.
