Fireworks

By setting off fireworks, large quantities of fine particulate matter are released, most of it on New Year’s Eve. Air quality measurements show that on the first day of the new year, air pollution with fine particulate matter hazardous to health is often higher than on any other day of the entire year. Combustion processes generate very small so-called ultrafine particles. Fireworks in particular release large amounts of these harmful ultrafine particles, which are laden with toxic metal oxides. In addition, various climate-relevant greenhouse gases are emitted.

According to the Austrian Pyrotechnics Act, fireworks of category F2 and above are generally prohibited in built-up areas. A ban also generally applies in the vicinity of hospitals, as well as at sporting events and near large gatherings of people. Irritant-producing pyrotechnic items as well as firecrackers containing flash powder compositions are explicitly prohibited.

In addition to dangerous injuries caused by improper handling, permanent hearing damage unfortunately occurs again and again. Often, the production of rockets and firecrackers itself is already problematic: an estimated 80 percent of fireworks sold in the EU come from the Far East and are not infrequently produced under socially questionable conditions.

The Federal Ministry will therefore welcome the new year with joy and confidence, but without noise and harmful fine particulate matter!

Impacts of fireworks

Air pollutant load

• Fine particulate matter (most significant impact)
• Sulfur dioxide
• Metals

Soil and water pollution
Firework (reaction) products enter soils and, in some cases, also standing bodies of water.

Noise
The loud explosions cause stress not only for people. Pets and wildlife also suffer.

Waste
Spent fireworks cause significant additional amounts of waste every year.

Accidents
Every year, serious accidents involving fireworks occur. In some cases, accidents with fatal outcomes are also to be lamented.

Property damage
Every year in Austria, fireworks cause fires. The resulting damage amounts run into the millions of euros.