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Fireworks display in Ghent at the Portus Ganda, Source: City of Ghent

Animal-friendly fireworks: Ghent's new way of celebrating New Year

Animal-friendly fireworks: Ghent's new way of celebrating New Year

They are also environmentally sustainable

Today, authorities in the Belgian city of Ghent announced that they will celebrate New Year’s Eve with fireworks. However, according to city authorities, the fireworks will be environmentally friendly, while causing much less distress to both domestic and wild animals within the city limits.

Considering animal psychology with New Year Celebrations

With the emerging field of animal psychology, many researchers have pointed out that fireworks on New Year’s Eve can cause considerable distress for animals.

The loud noises caused by fireworks can cause fear in animals and exposure to unpredictable and unexpected loud noises can lead to increased panic reactions and phobias in animals. This is why many cities have started banning or limiting fireworks displays for the winter holidays.

However, Ghent authorities seem to have found a workaround for the issue and promise this year-end firework display on 31 December will be different. For example, the display will not use high firework arrows, loud firecrackers and other sound effects. By using smaller fireworks, less gunpowder and by shooting the arrows less high, the sound will be contained to a reasonably limited area.

Authorities want to organise the display at the Portus Ganda – the city’s yacht ports. However, because the explosions will be much closer to the ground, they will need to establish a new security concept with the city police.  

Better for the environment

Moreover, the fireworks will no longer contain heavy metals, due to a new production method, and all the waste they produce will be biodegradable. All sleeves and accessories will be made from paper and cardboard, instead of plastic.

Bram Van Braeckevelt, Alderman of Festivities was quoted in a press release explaining that with the new concept, the city will have a chance to celebrate the new year together, without loud bangs. He pointed out that many years have passed since the city had an end-year celebration.

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