Tag Archives: acid rain

Do We Really Need Fireworks–and the Accompanying Pollution?

I have actually wondered about this for some time. It seems like more fireworks than ever are being used for non-special events. The recent construction of a minor league ballpark in my hometown came with loud, smoky fireworks after every game. The same thing goes on in San Diego (seen above) at Petco Park, except the smoke wafts out across the bay or residences near downtown.

Some argue that overuse of fireworks not only makes holidays like Independence Day less special, but it also creates a lot of unnecessary pollution. Because fireworks are special to a lot of people, this is also a tough issue to bring up.  People interpret opposition to excessive fireworks as another way to take the fun out of a world already saturated with bad news.

Perhaps it would help to look at the cost.

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