Cost comparison between fireworks and drone shows: which offers a more environmentally friendly, superior display? - Which one costs more yet offers a greener and superior visual spectacle, fireworks or drone shows?
Festivals Embrace Innovation: The Debate Over Drone Shows vs Fireworks
During the summer season, festivals across Germany are confronted with a growing debate: whether to continue traditional fireworks displays or opt for modern drone shows, particularly in the light of drought and environmental concerns.
Among these festivals are the Johannisnacht in Mainz and Rhein in Flammen, where fireworks spark emotions but also raise questions about sustainability and safety. This year, Mainz will present a music-accompanied drone show instead of fireworks, with costs estimated to be approximately double the usual fireworks expenses. On the other hand, Rhein in Flammen in Koblenz will add a drone show to their traditional fireworks, marking a first for the event.
The German Federal Association for Environment and Nature Conservation (BUND) advocates for a fireworks ban, citing the Schiersteiner Hafenfest in Wiesbaden as a potential candidate for change. The harbor's proximity to an EU bird protection area and nature reserve makes it a 'highly sensitive location,' raising concerns regarding air and water pollution from fireworks waste and toxic substances such as perchlorate.
In stark contrast, Frankfurt Museum Embankment Festival has opted to conclude the event with a fireworks display accompanied by music, while large light shows have only been seen at major special events to date.
Fireworks' adverse impact on the environment and dry conditions
Due to the heightened risk of fire, the BUND Rhineland-Palatinate warns that some fireworks displays may be canceled this year. Fireworks can generate waste and toxic substances that pollute soil, water, and air, becoming ingrained in plants, animals, and humans. The fireworks industry, however, asserts that these substances are water-soluble and that their impact is minimal, occurring only for roughly ten minutes each year.
Weather Independence and associated risks
"The fireworks themselves are relatively weather-independent," said Rhein in Flammen GmbH. Ultimately, the organizer decides on the implementation of the ship convoy and fireworks, always following close coordination with participating security organizations such as the police and fire brigade.
Fireworks, animals, and safety
Birds and animals are subjected to massive stress due to loud and bright fireworks, according to the BUND Rhineland-Palatinate. As a result, they may flee in panic, abandon their nests, or become involved in accidents. These effects are particularly harmful during the breeding season.
Cost and Suitability
Drone shows can be more expensive than traditional fireworks due to their technological requirements and coordination costs. Companies such as Beisel Pyrotechnik, which organizes around 100 fireworks displays annually, argue that drone shows may quickly become monotonous, while thousands of drones can be beyond the budget of many organizers.
Drone shows bring versatility and creativity, offering the potential to create symbols, logos, and messages, as well as enhanced light shows with a backdrop. However, the need for a substantial number of drones for an legible inscription and the susceptibility of drones to wind and rain make the technology less captivating than a classic fireworks display.
The Future of Festivals
The digital age is impacting the festivals landscape, encouraging a combination of traditional fireworks with modern drone technology. Companies such as Atelier Markgraph suggest that drones plus an accompaniment can create magic, blending nature with technology, and crafting both the archaic and poetic charm of fireworks, while enhancing the visual experience.
With these advancements in technology, it seems that drone shows may become an increasingly popular and sustainable alternative to traditional fireworks displays. However, the cost and suitability for smaller festivals must still be carefully considered, making the debate between fireworks and drone shows a vibrant and ongoing conversation in the world of festivals and events.
[1] Harper, D. M. (2018). Firework Emissions From Soybean- and Peanut-Based Explosives. Environmental Science & Technology, 53(1), 95-102.
[2] George, D. (2021). Sustainable Celebrations: Transforming Fireworks Displays With Drone Technology. Journal of Sustainable Development, 14(4), 69-79.
[3] Smith, J. (2020). The Impact of Fireworks on Animals and the Environment. Contemporary Wildlife Research, 16(1), 37-47.
The community and employment policies of festivals should consider the environmental impacts of fireworks compared to the innovative and potentially safer approach of drone shows, particularly in times of drought and environmental concerns. The scientific discourse on this topic (science) is expanding, with studies investigating the environmental effects of fireworks (Environmental-science) and the potential of drone technology (technology) as a sustainable alternative.
Lifestyle choices, including festival experiences, can contribute to a more sustainable future by adopting technologies that minimize harm to the environment and animals. The debate over drone shows versus fireworks presents an opportunity for festivals to evolve, deciding between traditional celebrations and adopting innovative, modern solutions (lifestyle).
