Stop Bonfire Night Pollution — Protect Wildlife and the Environment

Every year on 5th November, Bonfire Night celebrations across the UK fill the air with smoke, noise, and toxic chemicals from fireworks and open fires.

While this tradition has historical roots, it now causes serious harm to the environment, wildlife, and public health.

Studies show that air pollution levels soar several times higher than normal during Bonfire Night, with thick smoke and soot hanging in the air for hours — the same kind of pollution that can trigger asthma, harm lungs, and reduce air quality for days afterward.

Open bonfires release carbon emissions and can kill small animals such as hedgehogs, birds, and insects that take shelter inside piles of wood.

Countless pets experience distress from fireworks every year.

What’s worse, many fires involve unrecorded or unsafe materials - from plastics to painted wood, releasing toxic and unmeasured chemicals into the air and soil, threatening biodiversity, pets, and ecosystems.

Beyond environmental harm, these activities also strain national systems:

• NHS services see a spike in emergency cases from burns, respiratory distress, and anxiety-related issues caused by fireworks and poor air quality.
• Fire and rescue services face increased workloads from avoidable blazes.
• The resulting air and soil damage undermines costly government reforestation and sustainability efforts, reversing progress made through public funds.

We are calling on the UK Government and local councils to:

1. Ban or restrict fireworks and open bonfires on or around 5th November.
2. Encourage eco-friendly alternatives such as drone, laser, or light shows.
3. Raise awareness about the impact of these activities on wildlife, pets, biodiversity, public health, and the environment.
   
   

The UK Government invests millions every year in sustainability programs and environmental initiatives, yet one night of uncontrolled fires and fireworks takes much of that effort away.

Please sign and forward.
We are just one decision away from real change.