Fireworks Display May Put Your Health At Risk; Study

By Adebowale Bello, MSc. Health Tech.. Freelance Health Writer.

Vibrant fireworks display at night. Image credit: jcomp from Freepik

During the festive periods, it's not an uncommon sight to see African children and adults light up the sky with fireworks, their faces shining delightfully as the dark sky is bathed in radiant colours.

A recent research study has revealed that amidst all the colourful displays is a hidden danger - a high decline in air and water quality. The study showed some concerning facts about how those fireworks that you light up can cause pollution in your environment.

To identify the impact of fireworks display on the environment, the research team set up monitoring stations along the East River, New York City, USA. where the fireworks were launched. They also set up monitoring stations at five other metropolitan locations. 

Their goal? To measure the impact of fireworks on air and water quality.

They collected air samples to measure particulate matter (PM) — tiny particles suspended in the air that can be harmful when inhaled. On a typical day, the amount of tiny particles in the air was 10-15 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m3).

However, during the fireworks displays, this amount rose significantly. In two locations, it exceeded 1000 µg/m3 while at another location, it rose to as high as 3000 µg/m3.

Some metals that were found in increased amounts in the air samples include Sulphur (S), Potassium (K), Barium (Ba), Magnesium (Mg), Iron (Fe), Strontium (Sr) and Titanium (Ti). 

According to the World Health Organization, the average annual air particle levels should not exceed 10 µg/m3 for optimal health.

The researchers also analyzed water samples from the river to check for heavy metal contamination because even though the pollution was less obvious, it was still concerning. After the fireworks display, there was a noticeable increase in heavy metals present in the East River. Such heavy metals include Zinc (Zn), Lead (Pb), Antimony (Sb) and Copper (Cu).

What Does This Mean For You?

While this study was conducted in New York, its findings are relevant to African cities where fireworks are popular during celebrations. Many urban African cities like Lagos, Accra and Kampala already struggle with air pollution from traffic, industry and open burning; and fireworks can worsen these existing air quality issues.

The sharp increase in air pollution, even if short-lived, can have serious health consequences, particularly for vulnerable groups such as,

• Children: Increases the risk of respiratory issues and potential impacts on brain development due to lead exposure.

• Elderly: Increases liability to respiratory distress and heart problems.

• Those with pre-existing conditions: Potential trigger for asthma attacks and other respiratory complications.

Apart from human health, fireworks pollution can harm local ecosystems like,

• Water bodies: Due to increasing heavy metals, which can damage aquatic life, affecting fishing communities.

• Soil contamination: Through increased settlement of heavy metals in the ground, which can impact agriculture.

• Wildlife: Noise and air pollution can disrupt local fauna.

This research study further highlights the need for more environmentally friendly alternatives and better management of fireworks displays.

What are the solutions?

Some potential solutions are,

• Developing and using "green" fireworks that produce less pollution.

• Limiting the frequency and duration of fireworks displays.

• Implementing stricter regulations on fireworks usage.

• Choosing locations that minimize the impact of fireworks on water bodies and populated areas.

• Improving clean-up efforts after fireworks events to reduce long-term environmental consequences.

Wrap Up

Yes, we love fireworks. However, as this study shows, it comes at an environmental cost. In Africa, where many communities are facing environmental challenges, it's crucial to find a balance between celebration and conservation. By being aware and taking action, we can work towards cleaner, safer festivities that don't compromise the health of our communities or the environment.

Source:

Saporito, A.F., Gordon, T., Kim, B. et al. Skyrocketing pollution: assessing the environmental fate of July 4th fireworks in New York City. J Expo Sci Environ Epidemiol (2024). Doi: 10.1038/s41370-024-00701-x. Available from here.

Published: August 12, 2024

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