How to have a green and safe bonfire party
With many public bonfire displays being cancelled this year, some people will be organising a November 5 party in their own back garden.
Many organisations have axed events because of increased costs and trying to keep entry fees at affordable levels.
Firstly, a professional 20-minute fireworks show in the UK typically charges between £6,000 and £36,000. Secondly, organisers of large public events have to put additional security measures in place under Martyn’s Law. Although this legislation does not come into force until 2027, councils have been encouraged to act as though it was already in place this year.
So how can you have a green and safe celebration at home? Midlands green energy Ron Fox gives his five sparkling tips.
- Use wood, naturally: “When preparing a bonfire, it can be all too easy to burn old furniture, mattresses or even household rubbish,” said Ron of Noreus Ltd on the University of Keele Science and Innovation Park.“But people must remember that it is illegal to burn most types of waste and
setting fire to treated wood, tyres, plastics, rubber and oil can seriously harm health and pollute the environment,” he added. “Instead, burn only dry, clean and natural materials, such as untreated wood or waste from your garden.” - Look out for animals: “Garden log piles provide crucial shelter this month for hedgehogs preparing for hibernation and other mammals,” said Ron. “To avoid accidentally trapping them among the timber, build your bonfire on the day you intend to light it or in a place well away from the animals. Also ensure your own pets are well looked after and kept indoors.”
- Use eco-friendly fireworks: “Rockets and Catherine wheels give a magnificent firework display,” said Ron, “but remember they also pollute the atmosphere.” He added that if eco-friendly fireworks are hard to find and expensive, then go for white-coloured fireworks, which generally have fewer harmful chemicals than most of the colourful ones.
- Keep an eye on the weather: Choosing the best evening when the air is clear with a light breeze can make a huge difference. If the night air is still and misty, then the effects of pollution are intensified, plus there’s a danger to spectators if a stiff wind is blowing, said Ron.
- Beware of Chinese lanterns: These popular attractions pose a significant danger to wildlife, which can get trapped in the wires when they land. “If you really want a lantern, some retailers now sell biodegradable lanterns made without any wire,” said Ron.
“In the meantime, I hope everyone has a safe, green and enjoyable Bonfire Night,” concluded Ron.
This article raises some important questions, said Ron. Will you be holding a fireworks party in your own back garden as some of our readers will? How will you be making it a green and eco-friendly time? Would you be interested in finding out more from an expert about how to cut your carbon footprint? Send your views to Ron Fox at [email protected]
For more details about green energy and how to help fight climate change call Ron on 0845 474 6641 or contact us here
Caption: All fired up for Bonfire Night – but make it a green one. Picture: John Butterworth
