At the end of the year there is a big party. Not only within our own four walls, but especially outside of it. Everyone knows it can get louder there. The state of Tyrol wants to increase awareness among the population before New Year’s Eve.
For some, New Year’s Eve includes fireworks with rockets and firecrackers. However, the negative effects on nature and the environment are significant, as State Councilor for Nature Conservation René Zumtobel (SPÖ) warns: “We are committed all year round to protecting our nature, producing less waste, improving air quality and improving our entire living environment. and we must also do that on New Year’s Eve.”
That is why he calls on everyone not to throw environmental and climate protection overboard on the night of the New Year. Fireworks cause the measured particulate pollution to increase many times every year around the beginning of the year. In general, the measured pollution around the turn of the year in Tyrol has been continuously decreasing for several years. “Many people have already realized that fireworks and firecrackers are outdated; Some communities and tourist associations also do without at the turn of the year and offer fun alternatives, such as light shows. The direction is good,” says Zumtobel.
Because the majority of the fine dust particles released by rockets and fireworks are so small that these particles can penetrate the lungs and sometimes even the bloodstream, they pose a threat to health.
Problems are also caused by noise and waste
But not only air quality is affected on New Year’s Eve, fireworks also generate a large amount of residual waste every year. The toxic heavy metal particles contained therein, such as lead, nickel, arsenic and cadmium, are initially released into the air as a result of the explosion and after sinking end up in the soil and water and thus also in the food cycle of humans and animals.
Appeal to the population
The loud bangs and bright lights also frighten wild animals, farm animals and pets. Councilor for Agriculture and Animal Welfare Josef Geisler (ÖVP) is also appealing: “In principle, lighting fireworks in the area is prohibited. I ask the population not to forget the animals, despite all the joy around New Year’s Eve. Both domestic and wild animals are frightened and traumatized by the loud fireworks. Firing rockets or firecrackers and firecrackers near residential areas and stables is an absolute no-go.”
The national pyrotechnic law generally prohibits the discharge of fireworks in local areas. For other large fireworks displays or fireworks displays, permission is required from the responsible administrative body.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
