As New Year's Eve approaches, the sale of fireworks in Germany kicks off, with an expected 15% increase in goods compared to previous years. Despite the anticipated surge in sales, which already reached 180 million euros in 2023, there is an ongoing debate over the safety and environmental impact of these celebrations.
Critics, including doctors, police, and environmentalists, call for stricter regulations or outright bans on private fireworks. Their concerns revolve around injuries, which have proven fatal in some instances, and the strain on emergency services. Firecracker ban zones are established in several areas, particularly around hospitals, care homes, churches, and fire-sensitive buildings, to mitigate risks.
In response to these issues, a trend towards 'silent fireworks' is emerging. These use smaller calibers and different chemical mixtures to produce less noise, offering a more environmentally friendly alternative. Additionally, cities like Erfurt and Jena advocate for quieter celebrations, aiming to reduce noise pollution, accidents, and environmental damage.
Authorities emphasize the dangers of homemade fireworks, which are both illegal and life-threatening. In Berlin, a recent arrest highlighted the risks associated with illegal pyrotechnics, as a young man was caught selling banned items online.
The debate is complicated by the memories of reduced accidents during the pandemic when a sales ban was in place. Alternatives such as central fireworks displays and drone or laser shows are proposed as safer, less harmful options. As the discussion continues, the challenge remains to balance tradition with safety and environmental considerations.
