Out with the bang: Examining the case for alternatives to traditional fireworks

Key points

• Our polling found that 91% of Britons are open to partial replacement of traditional fireworks with ‘alternative’ displays, such as lasers, drones, or silent/quiet fireworks.
  • 61% of the British public think that these alternatives would be just as fun to watch as traditional fireworks. Of those who have actually attended an alternative display in the past, this rises to 66%
• Fireworks legislation in other countries is being tightened, sometimes motivated by animal welfare, but also due to public safety. They have explored alternatives, including quiet fireworks, drones, laser shows and illuminations, which have both welfare and economic benefits.
• Use of alternatives in the UK will have to increase significantly in scale and sophistication to win the public over, and to realise the economic benefits seen abroad.
• Alternatives to traditional fireworks could take greater prominence in the UK, even if not as a complete replacement of traditional displays

Recommendations

1. Reduce the maximum decibel level of all traditional fireworks from 120 dB to 90 dB, as is the case in New Zealand
2. Limit sale of consumer fireworks to certain types, and only to specialised/licensed shops
3. Follow the example of Scotland, and allow local councils to designate “fireworks-free zones” in areas where fireworks are likely to have a greater impact on animals, the environment and vulnerable persons.
4. When fireworks-free zones are in place, local councils should organise their own alternative displays and draw on examples from other countries, such as Japan, to harness the economic opportunity that high-quality displays can yield in terms of tourism.
5. Local councils should also explore opportunities to incorporate the use of drone displays, light shows, and “quiet fireworks” into traditional displays. This will help introduce them and their use to the public, which our polling indicates will in turn increase their popularity.
6. Given the economic potential of alternatives, and given the benefits to animals and the environment, government should review regulations surrounding alternatives to fireworks, such as drone displays.

In his foreword, Andrew Pakes MP said that the report “offers practical steps for reducing the harm fireworks cause, without taking away from the joy they bring. By making these changes, we can create safer, more inclusive, and environmentally friendly celebrations. Now is the time to embrace these changes.”