Politics Fireworks cause 200 to 400 tons of particulate matter
Fireworks don't just light up the sky. They are also associated with noise and a high level of pollution. According to the federal authorities, they cause 200 to 400 tons of particulate matter every year.
28.12.2024, 09:45
SDA
On Saturday, the Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN) drew attention to the environmental impact of fireworks in view of the upcoming New Year's Eve. According to the Federal Office of Police, between 1,000 and 2,000 tons of fireworks are used in Switzerland, particularly on the national holiday and at the turn of the year.
Pyrotechnic firework sets make up a quarter of this, the rest is packaging made of wood, cardboard, plastic or clay. In addition to black powder, the firework sets also consist of coloring metal compounds.
According to the Federal Office for the Environment, these fireworks produce around 200 to 400 tons of particulate matter per year. This means that fireworks account for one to two percent of total annual emissions. The particulate matter also ends up in soil and water as precipitation.
The suspended particles remain in the air for a long time, especially in cold temperatures and so-called inversions. Data from the National Air Pollution Monitoring Network shows that there are high concentrations of particulate matter in the vicinity of burning rockets and volcanoes.
Depending on weather conditions, the daily average limit value of 50 micrograms per cubic meter of air set out in the Ordinance on Air Pollution Control could be exceeded. In addition, the noise from fireworks is perceived as disturbing by some of the population and frightens domestic, farm and wild animals. Exposure to noise and pollutants can affect the health of humans and animals. It is also important to dispose of spent fireworks and packaging safely and correctly, writes the FOEN.
