Fireworks restrictions lead to significant improvement in air quality

The ban on the use of fireworks in selected areas and restrictions on their sale had a significant impact on air quality around the New Year, the Czech Hydrometeorological Institute (ČHMÚ) reported on its website. Concentrations of airborne particulate matter typically associated with New Year’s Eve celebrations dropped markedly, including in large cities. According to the findings, the measured levels were the lowest in at least the past 22 years, since such data have been recorded.

Under new regulations fireworks are banned within a radius of 250 metres from hospitals, retirement homes, day-care centres, animal shelters, rescue stations and registered animal breeding facilities.