Blasting pyrotechnics is hazardous to health, public warned

MANILA, December 30, 2011—Environmental advocates and other concerned groups warned the public of the health risks linked with the use of firecrackers as the New Year approaches.

The environmental network EcoWaste Coalition has partnered with the Philippine College of Chest Physicians (PCCP), a recognized authority in pulmonary medicine, in urging the public to refrain from using pyrotechnics to welcome the New Year for their health and safety.

The air pollution that results from blasting firecrackers and fireworks is hazardous to health, according to the group.

The EcoWaste Coalition and other groups have gathered yesterday morning outside the Lung Center of the Philippines bearing placards to emphasize the toxicity of emissions coming from exploding pyrotechnics.

PCCP president and pulmonologist Dr. Maria Encarnita Blanco-Limpin said pollutants coming from the exploding firecrackers are very harmful especially “to infants and young children, pregnant women, the elderly and people with existing heart, neurological and respiratory problems.”

“The toxic smoke and dust resulting from pyrotechnics explosion contain many nasty pollutants, including suspended particulate matters, that can easily enter the lungs and put people’s health at risk,” Blanco-Limpin said.

Aside from particulate matters, pyrotechnics-related pollutants include carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, metal, nitrous and sulfuric oxides.

Limpin said the same hazardous chemicals are also found in cigarettes, which explains why smoking is a health risk.

“We would like to remind our people to be vigilant about the dreaded diseases caused by these chemicals every day of the year. These are preventable ailments if people will be more aware and decisive, and with active government intervention," Limpin explained.

Coalition’s Iwas PapuToxic Campaigner Aileen Lucero, pointed out that the pollutants from exploding firecrackers practically turn the surroundings into a huge gas chambers exposing everyone to a cocktail of chemical contaminants.

“We suggest that we honestly re-examine this toxic tradition, which is totally not in sync with ongoing local and global efforts to cut pollution, improve environmental quality and lessen the impacts of the climate crisis,” Lucero said.

“Please heed P-Noy's timely call for a safe celebration,” she added.

President Benigno S. Aquino III had earlier called for a safe celebration saying that "it is time for new thinking, let us all welcome the New Year safely with regard for life and the environment.” (CBCPNews)