Fireworks are important elements of celebrations worldwide, yet little is known about their effects on wildlife. Previous research has shown that fireworks set off during New Year’s Eve cause birds to abandon areas in large numbers where these displays take place. Although the Netherlands accounts for only 3.8% of the EU’s total human population, it is responsible for 22% of all fireworks imported into the EU – evidence of a particularly strong tradition of fireworks.

The most recent research, also carried out in the Netherlands by Bart Hoekstra from the Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics at the University of Amsterdam, revealed that, on average, approximately 1,000 times as many birds were in flight on New Year’s Eve compared to other nights. The disturbance caused by fireworks decreases with distance, most notably within the first five kilometres; however, general flight activity remained ten times higher at distances of up to around 10 km. Large-bodied birds were the most affected.

Following the synchronised detonation of fireworks, birds remain in the air for 45 minutes to an hour. This disturbance causes a significant energy expenditure for flight, which would likely require considerably more time and energy to be spent foraging in the following days. Stress indicators, such as heart rate and body temperature, can remain elevated for several hours after the fireworks have ended.

Across Europe, most cities have decided to celebrate New Year’s Eve this year by launching pyrotechnics. However, in the Netherlands, possibly as a result of recent studies, more and more cities are choosing to replace fireworks with laser shows.

In Romania, the only city that has so far announced it will forego fireworks is Sibiu, where the New Year will instead be celebrated with music.

We appeal to all those who care about nature and the welfare of animals – whether pets or wild species – to celebrate the New Year in ways that do not cause suffering to these animals.