Studies Show Fireworks Impact Air and Water Quality Beyond Immediate Effects

Three recent studies published in ACS journals have investigated the environmental footprint of fireworks, uncovering their lasting effects on air and water quality after the displays conclude.

Water Chemistry Altered by Firework Residue

Research published in Environmental Science & Technology highlights that remnants from fireworks—including partially burned fuel, metal salts, and packaging—can significantly modify water chemistry when they enter aquatic systems. The study found that firecracker debris releases metal ions such as potassium and manganese, along with dissolved organic compounds like simple phenols and sulfur-containing substances. Simultaneously, the solid residues absorb other dissolved materials present in water, particularly larger and more complex molecules.

These chemical alterations have the potential to disturb microbial populations and aquatic ecosystems, especially in regions where fireworks are frequently used or in large quantities. The study emphasizes the importance of proper collection and disposal of spent fireworks to mitigate these environmental impacts.

Fireworks' Contribution to Air Pollution at Major Events

During large celebrations, air pollution arises from multiple sources, complicating the assessment of fireworks' specific impact. A study in ACS ES&T Air monitored airborne particulate matter during a multi-day athletic event in the United Kingdom to address this challenge.

The researchers observed noticeable short-term increases in both coarse and fine particles. While much of the pollution originated from cooking emissions and dust stirred by vehicles, two distinct peaks in fine particulate matter were recorded during the event’s opening and closing ceremonies. The first peak coincided with crowd arrival and dust disturbance, and the second, slightly smaller peak aligned with the fireworks displays.

Based on these measurements, the study estimated that attendees participating in all events would surpass the World Health Organization’s recommended exposure limits for air pollutants. This suggests that large-scale celebrations involving fireworks can represent a significant source of fine particulate matter exposure.

Fireworks Emit Compounds Beyond Visible Smoke

Another study examined the presence of amines—compounds included in some firework formulations that can react in the atmosphere to form aerosols affecting air quality. Conducted during Lunar New Year festivities in a suburban Chinese area, the research measured gases and airborne particles to determine whether these compounds are destroyed during explosions or released into the air.

The findings, published in Environmental Science & Technology Letters, revealed sharp increases in several amines during the largest fireworks displays compared to non-celebratory periods. Additionally, increases in fine particulate matter and ions such as sulfate and potassium were detected. These results indicate that fireworks contribute to haze formation through more than just visible smoke.

Key studies include “Molecular-Level Perturbations of Dissolved Organic Matter Driven by Episodic Firecracker Residue Leaching” by Guan-Lin Chen et al., published 27 May 2026 in Environmental Science & Technology (DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.6c01478); “The Impact of Hospitality on Air Quality at a Major Sporting Event” by W. Joe F. Acton et al., published 2 February 2026 in ACS ES&T Air (DOI: 10.1021/acsestair.5c00142); and “Firework Display Is a Newly Identified Source of Gaseous and Particulate Amines” by Lin Gui et al., published 18 September 2025 in Environmental Science & Technology Letters (DOI: 10.1021/acs.estlett.5c00806).