Organizers of Quebec’s fireworks shows are defending their events against claims of negative environmental impact. Some shows were cancelled last summer due to concerns about air quality during the wildfire season, but a new study has found that the impact of fireworks on the environment is minimal. The study, presented by the Canadian Pyrotechnic Council, the Regroupement des événements pyrotechniques du Québec, and engineer Jean-Luc Allard, shows that air quality impacts are limited to a small geographic area and short timeframe, and that Quebec’s environmental rules are being followed.
Despite concerns over air quality, the organizers hope that releasing the study results will alleviate fears and allow fireworks shows to continue. The Canadian Pyrotechnic Council reports that dozens of municipalities have not renewed contracts for fireworks shows this year, primarily due to these concerns. However, the study indicates that the impact is limited in space and time, suggesting a smaller impact than expected. Sophie Emond, president of LaRonde theme park where Montreal’s fireworks competition takes place, states that this year’s displays will be scaled down to reduce environmental impact, with shorter durations of explosions and additional laser displays.
Dr. Scott Weichenthal, an expert on the health impacts of air pollution, raises concerns about the potential harm caused by fireworks smoke, particularly in areas like Hochelaga-Maisonneuve near LaRonde. He suggests that society must decide whether the enjoyment of fireworks shows is worth the potential health risks posed by the smoke. However, the organizers argue that fireworks events are free, inclusive, and bring joy to thousands of people while positively impacting Montreal’s economy. They emphasize their willingness to cancel or postpone shows if Public Health deems it necessary, but hope that fireworks displays will continue to be a part of Quebec’s cultural landscape.
The study presented by the Canadian Pyrotechnic Council and its partners indicates that fireworks displays follow Quebec’s environmental regulations and have a minimal impact on air quality. The findings aim to counteract the negative perception of fireworks shows and address concerns raised by municipalities. While some events have been cancelled due to these concerns, the organizers hope that the study will reassure the public and allow fireworks shows to continue. By scaling down this year’s displays to reduce environmental impact, they aim to address the potential harm caused by fireworks smoke and ensure the safety of attendees.
Despite concerns raised by experts like Dr. Weichenthal about the health impacts of fireworks smoke, the organizers believe that the benefits of fireworks events outweigh the risks. They stress the social, economic, and cultural significance of these shows, which bring communities together and serve as a source of joy and wonder. While they acknowledge the need to prioritize public health, they hope to continue hosting fireworks displays while being responsive to any concerns raised by health authorities. Ultimately, they aim to strike a balance between the enjoyment of fireworks shows and ensuring the well-being of individuals in the communities where these events take place.
