I love fireworks - but big Fourth of July fireworks displays are typically propelled by the ignition of gunpowder—a technological innovation that pre-dates the American War of Independence. The fall-out from these exhibitions includes a variety of toxic pollution that rain down on neighborhoods from coast to coast, often in violation of federal Clean Air Act standards. We need something new!
Traditional fireworks produce smoke and dust that contain various heavy metals, sulfur-coal compounds and other noxious chemicals.
-Barium is used to produce brilliant green colors in fireworks displays, despite being poisonous and radioactive.
-Copper compounds are used to produce blue colors, even though they contain dioxin, which has been linked to cancer.
-Cadmium, lithium, antimony, rubidium, strontium, lead and potassium nitrate are also commonly used to produce different effects, even though they can cause a host of respiratory and other health problems.
Good news! The Walt Disney Company has pioneered new technology using environmentally benign compressed air instead of gunpowder to launch fireworks. This, combined with laser lights creates a dazzling show. I look forward to the day everyone adopts this technology.
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