Saturday | 11 January 2025 | Reg No- 06
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Saturday | 11 January 2025 | Epaper

Fireworks' impact on environment on the eve of new year 

Published : Sunday, 29 December, 2024 at 12:00 AM  Count : 483
MD Asadullah Al Mahmud
In recent years, the celebration of New Year's Eve, or "Thirty-First Night," has become a part of urban culture in Bangladesh, despite its lack of connection to our traditional heritage. This event, rooted in Western customs, gained popularity during the current regime, emphasizing its cultural disconnect from our own values. While the festivities may seem harmless on the surface, they carry significant environmental, public health, and social repercussions that demand critical examination.  

Environmental Impacts: Air and Noise Pollution: The release of fireworks, the flying of lanterns, and the use of firecrackers on New Year's Eve have profound environmental consequences. Fireworks release harmful gases such as sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. These pollutants degrade air quality, exacerbate respiratory issues, and are especially harmful to individuals with asthma or other pre-existing respiratory conditions. The particulate matter released by fireworks contributes to smog formation, affecting both human and animal life.  

Noise pollution from firecrackers is equally detrimental. The sudden loud sounds can be traumatic for both humans and animals. Birds, in particular, are highly sensitive to these disruptions. Startled by the noise, they often flee in confusion, leading to injuries or death. Domestic animals such as cats and dogs also experience stress and fear during such celebrations, while vulnerable groups of humans-children, the elderly, and individuals with heart conditions-are exposed to severe health risks.  

The Hidden Threat of Sky Lanterns: Sky lanterns, while seemingly harmless, pose serious environmental hazards. Constructed from paper and metal frames, these lanterns often fall in fields, water bodies, or other open spaces, leading to soil and water pollution. The residual wax or fuel from the lanterns adds to this contamination. Furthermore, lanterns can ignite dry vegetation or flammable materials, resulting in devastating fires. Recent incidents worldwide have highlighted how such celebrations can quickly turn catastrophic.  

Economic and Ethical Concerns: The financial cost of such celebrations is another pressing issue. In a developing country like Bangladesh, where poverty and inequality persist, spending millions on fireworks and other materials is an egregious misuse of resources. These funds could be better utilized in social welfare initiatives, education, or healthcare programs. Investing in constructive activities would align with our nation's priorities and bring about tangible benefits to society. 

Religious Perspective: From an Islamic perspective, such extravagance and wastefulness are clearly discouraged. The Quran states, "And do not spend wastefully. Indeed, the wasteful are brothers of the devils" (Surah Al-Isra, 26-27). Similarly, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) prohibited actions that cause harm, stating, "There should be neither harming nor reciprocating harm" (Sunan Ibn Majah: 2340). Activities like firework displays and lantern releases represent both financial waste and environmental harm, contradicting Islamic teachings.  



The Legal Context: Bangladesh's Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change has declared the use of firecrackers, fireworks, and sky lanterns during New Year's celebrations a punishable offense under the Noise Pollution (Control) Rules, 2006. Violations can lead to imprisonment for up to one month or fines of up to 5,000 BDT for the first offense, with harsher penalties for subsequent violations. While the legislation is commendable, its enforcement remains inconsistent.  

Responsibilities of Society: Enforcing the law is not the sole responsibility of the government. Civil society, environmental organizations, and citizens must work collaboratively to promote awareness about the harmful effects of such celebrations. Educational institutions can include environmental awareness campaigns as part of their curriculum. Social media platforms can be leveraged for mass awareness campaigns, emphasizing the long-term consequences of these activities.  

Journalists, columnists, and writers also have a vital role to play. Opinion pieces and editorials in newspapers can effectively raise awareness about the issue, influencing public opinion and policy-making. Religious leaders can use their platforms to educate people about the environmental and religious implications of such practices.  

Corporate Responsibility: Businesses can also contribute to creating a more sustainable society. Through corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, companies can promote eco-friendly alternatives to traditional New Year's celebrations. For instance, campaigns encouraging the use of biodegradable materials or virtual celebrations can not only protect the environment but also serve as a branding opportunity for companies.  

A Call for Change: The environmental, health, and ethical consequences of New Year's Eve celebrations cannot be ignored. While festivities are an integral part of human culture, they should not come at the cost of our environment, health, and moral values. It is time for individuals, communities, and institutions to adopt responsible practices and celebrate in ways that align with sustainability and social responsibility. By addressing the negative impacts of these celebrations and working together to implement eco-friendly alternatives, we can move toward a healthier and more harmonious society.

The writer is an entrepreneur



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