Fireworks - an Independent Point of View
by Tao Oliveto, Carrboro, NC (Re-post from last year’s July 4th entry)
I dread the 4th of July. It’s not the idea of patriotism I mind, it’s the fireworks. First, they are bad for the environment. Inhabitat.com says, “From gunpowder fall out to smoke and dust that contain various heavy metals, sulfur-coal compounds and other noxious chemicals, fireworks are decidedly un-green.” However, it doesn’t stop there. Fireworks used at home injure many people every year and can start fires.
City organized fireworks may injure less people, but most animals suffer when subjected to this noise, even from a distance. Pets who stay indoors are still at risk. Most of my dogs have shown signs of distress and one former dog would shake, drool and pant with terror as soon as the first rocket fires (sometimes as early as Noon!). I know of another dog who jumped through a plate glass window in his panic, was lost for days and badly injured. I can only imagine how the noise, pollution and sight of fireworks may affect surrounding wildlife.
I’ve boycotted fireworks displays since I was in college when I realized that the rocket’s “red glare” symbolizes war, which means I have no reason to enjoy watching or hearing it. I read on inhabitat.com that there are more ec0-friendly fireworks available by Sekon biodegradable fireworks - a gunpowder-free “air launch” technology. If cities could make this switch, it could at least solve one part of the problem. Perhaps you can talk to your town’s officials about this option.
I prefer to think we can evolve past fireworks for good and choose a meaningful alternative. How about a light show or raising flags or playing music? Let’s make July 4th something to celebrate - like an Indepence from Oil Day - or at least for now, a creative, safe and eco-friendly holiday, something all beings can enjoy.
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