How to Use Eco‐Friendly Alternatives to Fireworks

Co-authored by Anthony Porter

Last Updated: November 21, 2024 References

Whether you are celebrating New Year's Day, Guy Fawkes Night, Diwali, or any other holiday (or no event in particular), fireworks are a great way of celebrating. Unfortunately, fireworks are not environmentally-friendly. Setting them off releases harmful chemicals into the air, such as carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide and sulphur dioxide, and disturbs wildlife.^{[1]
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Research source} Fortunately, there are some more environmentally-friendly options to try.

1

Use eco-friendly fireworks.

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While eco-friendly fireworks aren't totally environmentally-friendly, they do produce about 50% less emissions. They also tend to be smokeless, sulphur-free, and/or don't produce chlorine-based formations.^{[2]
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Research source} Unfortunately, eco-friendly options are currently more expensive and harder to find.
- White fireworks are typically more environmentally-friendly than coloured ones.^{[3]
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2

View firework displays, instead of setting off your own.

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While fireworks in firework displays also contribute to air pollution, having one display being viewed by a large group of people is better than having many people setting off their own firework displays. These displays also tend to be higher quality.
- If you don't have a display anywhere near you, you can instead watch a neighbour's or friend's display. This reduces how many fireworks are set off. If you are having your own firework display, invite others to view it to reduce how many fireworks are set off.
- Large displays are still damaging to the environment, especially as they involve many fireworks. Some people may be organising a boycott of these big displays because of the environmental impact. If this is the case, you may want to take part in the boycott.

3

Opt for silent fireworks.

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While silent fireworks still release harmful chemicals into the environment, they don't disturb wildlife and don't cause as much noise pollution.^{[4]
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Research source} These type of fireworks can also be less distressing for people with certain disabilities, such as PTSD and autism.

4

View a laser or light show.

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While lasers and lights do use electricity, this electricity can be from renewable sources, and is cleaner than firework shows as the laser can be used more than once. Laser or light shows offer the same thrill of the lights as fireworks do and are a good alternative.^{[5]
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- Many laser shows may require an entrance fee.

5

Use glow sticks.

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Glow sticks are a cool alternative to fireworks and are especially popular with children. Most glow sticks are not sustainable as they are made from single-use plastic, however there are brands which sell sustainable glow sticks.
- Glow sticks can be made into many different shapes.
- It is possible to make glow sticks glow again, which is more sustainable than throwing them out and buying more.

6

Take part in other visually-appealing events.

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Look into what other events are happening nearby, such as parades and concerts.^{[6]
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Research source} For special days, such as independence days, or Lunar New Year there are usually other events happening throughout the day(s). If there isn't anything else going on, you can hold your own celebration.

7

Use light-up toys.

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Light-up toys can be found at many different events, such as circus and firework shows. While they are made of plastic, they are to be used over and over again. Many of these toys make noises too and work especially well in the dark. You can also use disco lights at home.
- Opt for rechargeable batteries when using these types of toys.

8

Dress up in bright or neon colours.

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A great way to celebrate colourful events like Diwali is to wear bright colours. This can help you get in the festive mood and can literally brighten up events. You can opt for bright colours with lots of patterns, or you can wear reflective, or glow-in-the-dark outfits for high visibility. While on its own it might not be an appropriate substitute for fireworks, paired with other festivities can make the event more fun.
- You can also paint faces for the celebration.

9

Put up lights.

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The possibilities of lights are endless. Lights can be hung inside and outside and there are many different types, such as fairy lights, LEDs and projectors. You have many different colours and designs to choose from. Try to get solar-powered lights, especially for outside.
- Outdoor light displays also mean that more people can enjoy them.

10

Blow bubbles.

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Bubbles are generally not too harmful to the environment. Bubble mixture can be made at home using water, glycerin and washing up liquid. You can even purchase environmentally-friendly washing up liquid to make your bubble mixture more sustainable. ^{[7]
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- Blow bubbles outside to prevent damage to anything inside.

11

Throw confetti.

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Confetti can be sustainable. You can make your own out of colourful recyclable paper (as long as it gets picked up after). Confetti tubes are anther option, but choose ones which are 100% recyclable. If you plan on throwing confetti outside, get biodegradable confetti.^{[8]
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Research source} Confetti produces colourful displays, much like fireworks. You can make own displays and choose what colours you want to use.
- Dried rose petals are a great biodegradable version of confetti that you can use and make for free.

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Tips

You can ask politicians to make a legislation to ban fireworks in your area, or to replace them with environmentally-friendly alternatives.^{[9]
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Expert Source

Anthony Porter
Outdoorsman and Survival Expert

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If you are having a bonfire, burn only natural materials.^{[10]
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You can watch firework displays from your window if you don't want to actively take part in firework celebrations.

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