fireworks

Fireworks displays create surges of pollutant ozone in lower levels of the atmosphere, where it is a respiratory irritant, greenhouse gas, and plant toxin.  Some scientists believe fireworks are  an “insignificant source of pollution”, because they occur infrequently; however, no source of greenhouse gases is insignificant considering our current climate crisis, not to mention the heavy metals and potassium perchlorate in these grand patriotic displays.

Chemical compounds called perchlorates provide the propellant and explosive qualities in most fireworks produced today. As well as providing the whoosh and boom in fireworks perchlorates contaminate groundwater and interfere with the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland regulates the metabolism in adults and helps control growth in children. Thanks to the work of a Los Alamos based DMD Systems, LLC there is a new option in fireworks, with greatly reduced perchlorates.

Avoid the Danger and Toxic Pollution with These Alternate Activities

No fireworks at this Olympics.