Drones are the new fireworks
We are moving towards a cleaner and even more spectacular future of celebrations
Fireworks are a staple for New Year’s celebrations across the world. This is an expensive process that usually costs around $200,000 for Canada yearly. Not just expensive, the annual traditional fireworks have long been criticized for the several environmental implications they have. Every colourful rocket emits a toxic mix of chemicals into the atmosphere. The toxic pollutants include potassium, nitrate, sulphur, potassium, lead, titanium, strontium, and copper. Fireworks not only produce harsh chemicals but release large amounts of air pollutants such as sulphur dioxide and carbon dioxide. The firework shows impact the health of citizens as exposure can cause respiratory diseases.
However, many countries around the world have found an alternative to fireworks by displaying drones instead. Drones are eco-friendly and have been gaining popularity in many countries since fireworks carry so many concerns. China, Singapore, and India have decided to display drones instead of fireworks on Lunar New Year and Diwali. Drones do not produce any harmful toxins and are a cleaner alternative for celebrations around the world.
Fireworks have been around for centuries to celebrate occasions and cultural milestones, but now we have advanced in technology. Fireworks are an old invention dating back to the second century BCE. Considering the environmental and health implications, it is time for a change in the way we do things when celebrating.
Drones have the power to not only paint the sky with colour, but to perform elaborate shapes, designs, and choreographies. Using drones would reduce the carbon dioxide and though fireworks do not occur every day, when given a chance to reduce harmful toxins in the environment, eco-friendly alternatives should be chosen.
It is time for countries to make a change in the way that they celebrate. Countries should invest in this form of technology. Eventually, fireworks should be banned to enforce electronic fireworks display or any other non-polluting ways of celebrating. We are celebrating and saving the environment at the same time.
Associate Opinion Editor (Volume 48) — Haya Abu Ghosh is a fourth-year student double majoring in English and Political Science. When I am not doing any school work, I love going out with friends to coffee shops and dining in restaurants to socialize. My passions include but are not limited to reading, writing, sketching, binge-watching Netflix TV shows, taking pictures of nature and talking about politics (do not get me started talking about the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, Indigenous injustices, Uyghur Muslims in China and many more topics).