Environmental toll of New Year’s celebrations

Prof. Dr. Ahmad Kamruzzaman Majumder :

Everywhere throughout the world, people celebrate the start of a new year with happiness and solidarity. As midnight approaches, many people take part in countdowns, eagerly awaiting the arrival of the New Year. The moment the clock strikes twelve is often met with cheers, fireworks, and a sense of excitement. In major cities, fireworks light up the night sky, adding to the celebratory spirit and creating a visually spectacular scene. People gather in open spaces or watch the fireworks from their homes, embracing the joyous occasion. Even though these festivities represent rebirth and promise, there is rising worry about their effects on the environment. One of the most urgent problems related to New Year’s celebrations is air pollution. The main contributors are fireworks, which are a focal point of the festivities. Chemicals such as potassium perchlorate, magnesium, barium nitrate, aluminum alloys, and perlite powder are used to create these colorful displays. These materials emit a variety of dangerous pollutants when they burn, such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, and fine particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10). Because particulate matter, particularly PM2.5, can enter the bloodstream and lungs deeply, it poses serious health hazards for people who are susceptible to respiratory ailments, cardiovascular issues, and even cancer.
The effects of such pollution on health are extensive and severe. Particularly at risk are vulnerable groups, such as children, the elderly, and people with underlying medical issues. Chronic respiratory diseases such bronchitis and asthma can worsen with prolonged exposure to air pollution. Additionally, by impairing immune systems, these pollutants increase a person’s vulnerability to diseases. Beyond short-term respiratory disorders, prolonged exposure might result in systemic concerns such cardiovascular diseases and shortened life expectancy. Another serious issue during the New Year’s festivities is noise pollution. Loud crackers and fireworks produce sound levels that frequently beyond acceptable limits, resulting in a number of environmental and health issues. The effects of noise pollution also affect wildlife in big cities. Birds are especially susceptible to the disturbances that fireworks can generate. They frequently fly recklessly after getting frightened by the loud noises, colliding with trees, buildings, and other objects. As a result, many become hurt or pass away. Their feeding and breeding habits are also impacted, emphasizing the wider ecological effects of noise pollution. Such disruptions can have long-term impacts on local biodiversity due to the stress they produce, which highlights the need for more wildlife-conscious celebrations.
An analysis of Dhaka’s Air Quality Index (AQI) shows that, in the past 7 years, the AQI on January 1st has significantly increased compared to December 31st, with an increase ranging from 6 per cent to 66 per cent. Typically, during this time, the AQI falls into the “Very Unhealthy” (201-300) or “Hazardous” (301-500) categories. Between 2017 and 2024, the AQI has never been in a good range and has never been below 50.
Beyond the immediate impacts on health and the environment, there is rising concern about how sustainable New Year’s celebrations are for the environment. Because of their non-biodegradable components, fireworks contribute to contamination of the soil and water. These objects’ residues frequently contain heavy metals and other hazardous materials that contaminate ecosystems by seeping into the ground or adjacent water bodies. Climate change is further exacerbated by the substantial carbon emissions produced during the manufacture and disposal of fireworks. A multifaceted strategy involving communities, individuals, and policymakers is needed to address these problems.
There are a number of ways to lessen the negative effects that New Year’s celebrations have on the environment and human health. Fireworks should be restricted to designated zones far from natural habitats, nesting grounds, and migratory paths, with specific emphasis on urban areas. Campaigns to raise public awareness of the dangers of conventional fireworks and the advantages of switching to eco-friendly alternatives are essential. Without sacrificing the joyous atmosphere, eco-friendly alternatives like laser light displays or biodegradable fireworks offer a sustainable way to celebrate. For example, laser displays provide a visually spectacular alternative that completely removes noise and air pollution. In contrast, materials used in biodegradable fireworks decompose more readily and emit fewer harmful emissions.
Governments can play a pivotal role in mitigating pollution by implementing stricter regulations on the sale and use of fireworks, particularly in urban areas. Policies could include limiting the hours during which fireworks can be used, restricting their use to designated areas, and encouraging the adoption of eco-friendly alternatives. Noise pollution limits, especially during late-night hours, should be strictly enforced, with penalties for violations. Real-time monitoring systems for air and noise pollution can help track compliance with environmental standards and provide data to inform future policies.
Community engagement is also vital in promoting sustainable practices. Local organizations, schools, and community groups can work together to organize celebrations that prioritize environmental responsibility. For instance, communities can replace traditional fireworks with synchronized light displays or silent fireworks. These alternatives not only reduce pollution but also create a sense of shared responsibility and innovation. Educating children and young people about the environmental impact of their actions can also foster a culture of sustainability for future generations.
It is feasible to achieve a balance between tradition and sustainability by combining technological innovation, community involvement, regulatory changes, and public awareness. Let this serve as a wake-up call for a more conscientious, health-conscious manner to commemorate the start of a new year that honors the earth and its inhabitants.

(The writer is Dean, Faculty of Science, Professor, Department of Environmental Science, Stamford University Bangladesh).