Report reveals support for ‘alternative’ fireworks
Over 60 per cent of those surveyed said they would enjoy alternative fireworks as much as traditional.
A report from the Social Market Foundation (SMF) has found increasing support for more animal-friendly ‘alternative’ fireworks.
The survey, sponsored by the RSPCA, found that 91 per cent of respondents would be open to some alternatives to traditional fireworks, including lasers, drones and quiet fireworks.
The results also found that nearly a quarter of the public would consider a complete replacement of traditional fireworks for more animal-friendly options. Over 60 per cent said they would enjoy these alternatives as much, increasing to 66 per cent among those which had previously seen an alternative display.
Only 15 per cent said that they were happy with how traditional fireworks are currently used.
This trend is also reflected among policymakers, where there is a growing interest in regulating traditional fireworks.
In England, Judith Cummins led a group of MPs in proposing a maximum noise limit on fireworks – a bill abandoned due to the snap election. Meanwhile in Scotland, legislation has been passed to restrict when and where fireworks can be used.
However, the SMF says that the existing regulations are difficult to enforce and inadequate for protecting animals.
It has recommended a two-pronged strategy which the government could implement to encourage a wider adoption of alternative fireworks. This strategy would involve tougher regulation and more innovative displays.
Tougher regulation would see a reduction in the noise levels of traditional fireworks, from 120dB to 90dB. It would also regulate the sale of consumer fireworks to indoor fireworks, handheld fireworks, and fireworks designed for confined outdoor spaces.
It also advises that England follows the example of Scotland, where local councils can designate ‘firework free zones’ in places where fireworks may have a greater impact on animals, the environment and vulnerable people.
The SMF also suggests that more innovative displays may encourage the use of alternative fireworks. It believes that local councils should organise alternative displays in firework free zones and incorporate more alternative options into their traditional shows.
It calls for the government to reduce the bureaucracy for companies investing in high-quality alternative displays, allowing new companies to enter the market with new products.
Carrie Stones, campaigns manager at the RSPCA, said: “A review of fireworks regulations - including limiting the sale and usage of fireworks to certain times of year, implementing firework control zones and reducing maximum noise levels - will protect animals from harm.
“The SMF’s findings show that the majority of people support this as well.”
Read the full report here.
Image © Shutterstock
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
