Traditional fireworks emission of dangerous toxins is one of the reasons to support eco-friendly fireworks.

For this writing, I’ve included some research into this topic since it is certainly a public safety issue that goes beyond explosion related limb and facial injuries; it’s about the detrimental affects of dangerous toxins from traditional fireworks on human health, wildlife/birds/domestic animals, and environmental destruction.

PETA, the American lung Association, the NIH, Audubon Society, and many more organizations are warning about dangerous chemicals emitted from traditional fireworks.

The American Lung Association in part states: “when fireworks explode they release gases such as sulfur dioxide, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, along with aluminum, manganese, and cadmium, with some illegal fireworks containing lead… Particle pollution can also worsen existing lung diseases and cause heart attacks, stroke, lung cancer, and premature death.”

The NIH also lists arsenic, sodium oxalate, iron dust powder, potassium perchlorate and strontium nitrate in traditional fireworks.

As for myself, I can testify that living in an overcrowded suburb, the fireworks stench is akin to a forest fire for a few days following the 4th of July.

Although traditional fireworks have been a mainstay for decades, the public has blatantly ignored the safety and well being for domestic animals, wildlife, birds, and the heavy toll on human physical and mental health, along with environmental destruction.

umatechnology.org reports toxins from traditional fireworks contaminate the air, ground soil, and leeches into bodies of water.

The Audubon Society issues a stark warning of: “many chemicals like barium and antimony have been shown to have dangerous effects on the lungs heart and stomach. Perchlorate, oxygen-rich molecules that allow the fuel in fireworks to burn, disrupts thyroid endocrine systems and reproduction in wildlife, and is listed as a drinking water contaminant by the United States Environmental Protection Agency.”

To counter the dangers of traditional fireworks emitting toxic chemicals, we must no longer ignore their deleterious impact regarding public safety.

As for the alternatives, some Drone fireworks shows are available, Shelby Township had theirs June 21st, and Sterling Heights will host theirs July 24th.

The following agencies recommend these alternatives:

• The American Lung Association recommends drone fireworks, since they do not contaminate the air, there’s no risk of fires, and no noise pollution to frighten animals or those suffering from PTSD.

• The Audubon Society recommends choosing noise free ground fireworks, and to save money, reduce pollutant emissions, and protect wildlife, to forgo buying personal fireworks.

In addition, umatechnology.org recommends laser light shows, drone light shows, biodegradable confetti, projection mapping, and virtual reality fireworks.

Their message is profound: “it’s up to all of us to make responsible choices and embrace eco-friendly alternatives that will help protect our planet for future generations and promotes a more sustainable future for all.”

For more information, please visit the organization links I’ve cited:

Karen Mouradjian is a resident of Eastpointe.