Research has shown that Bonfire Night contributes to a noticeable rise in pollution.
The sheer number of bonfires lit across the UK releases large amounts of greenhouse gases including carbon dioxide, sulphur dioxide and carbon monoxide. The problem gets worse when bonfires include painted or treated wood, plastics, metals or other waste materials, as these release toxic fumes when burned.
Around 10 million UK consumers buy fireworks every year. The majority in the run-up to November 5th and these also contribute to pollution.
Fireworks rely on a mix of chemicals such as sulphur compounds and perchlorates, which contaminate the air, and eventually water sources and soil once the debris falls back to ground. Spent firework casings, if not cleaned up properly, can also pose a risk to wildlife.
Speaking of wildlife, hedgehog checks before lighting a bonfire are still crucial, but it’s not just the pile of wood that affects them. Noise, smoke and ash disturb animals for long after your flame has gone out.
5 Ways to make Bonfire Night more eco-friendly
Now that we better understand the impact, there are some simple changes we can make to reduce it.
1. Consider drone shows
Some larger Bonfire Night events now offer drone light displays instead of traditional fireworks. Drones don’t rely on explosive chemicals, can be powered using renewable electricity, and are much quieter, making them a much cleaner alternative that’s also less stressful for animals.
2. Attend an organised event
If there isn’t a drone show near you, consider going to a community display rather than hosting your own. Bigger, centralised displays mean fewer individual fires and fewer private fireworks going off and many local events raise money for good causes too.
You could also encourage organisers to look into quieter and lower-impact options in future years.
3. Pick lower-impact fireworks
If you are planning a private display, choose “eco-friendly” fireworks where possible. These burn cleaner, produce less smoke and generally make less noise – helping people, pets and wildlife.
And if you’re lighting a bonfire stick to dry, untreated timber. Painted, damp or synthetic materials will release harmful fumes.
4. Keep food seasonal and plant-based
Bonfire Night food can be traditional, tasty and low impact. Seasonal favourites like parkin or toffee apples tick both boxes.
Only cook what you need and if you do end up with leftovers, store them to enjoy the next day.
5. Craft using recycled materials
Instead of buying craft kits for Bonfire Night decorations, make creative use of what you already have. Scrap cardboard, paper and empty tubes can easily be turned into rockets, fireworks or bonfire models. You’ll save money and avoid unnecessary waste.
Enjoy a greener Bonfire Night
With a little thought, Bonfire Night can still be fun while being far less damaging to the environment. Before long, we’ll be turning our attention to Christmas – and there are plenty of ways to make that more sustainable too.
