How to Have an Eco Friendly Bonfire Night

Bonfire Night is one of the most anticipated dates in the UK calendar. But behind the sparklers and fireworks, the environmental impact of the 5th of November often goes unrecognised. From air pollution to waste and harm to wildlife, the effects can linger long after the night is over. By making simple changes to how we celebrate, it’s possible to have a more eco-friendly Bonfire Night that still brings people together in memorable ways.

What is the environmental impact of Bonfire Night?

Fireworks can contribute to short-term air pollution. They release fine particulate matter, heavy metals and perchlorates into the atmosphere, which can irritate lungs, harm ecosystems and contaminate soil and water. Bonfires add to the damage, especially when used to burn plastics, painted wood or household waste, releasing toxic gases and carbon emissions.

Noise is another concern. Sudden loud bangs can cause distress to pets, disturb nesting birds and interrupt the hibernation of wildlife like hedgehogs. Litter from spent fireworks and bonfire remains often ends up in green spaces and waterways.

1. Go to a Public Display

If you want to enjoy fireworks, attending a local display could be one of the most eco-friendly choices. Organised events consolidate the environmental impact: fewer fireworks are needed to entertain more people, and safety and clean-up are managed professionally.

Public displays also limit disruption across residential areas. Instead of dozens of small, private shows, one shared event reduces the noise and litter that often frustrate neighbours and frighten animals. Many councils now consider environmental impact in how displays are run; some even switch to low-noise or drone-based alternatives.

2. Avoid Bonfires or Keep Them Minimal

Despite being part of the name, bonfires aren’t necessary to celebrate Bonfire Night! But if you do choose to have one, you can make adjustments to keep it as safe and clean as possible.

Advice from the Environment Agency is to make sure that home bonfires only include burning small amounts of paper, leaves, wood and cardboard and the waste is kept securely before being burned. They also say “it is illegal to burn most types of waste and setting fire to treated wood, tyres, plastics, rubber and oil can seriously harm health and pollute the environment”.

Other practical tips include building the bonfire on the day itself to avoid harming wildlife that may shelter inside, but still do check carefully for hedgehogs and other creatures before lighting. Keep the fire small and manageable, and ensure it’s completely extinguished before leaving it unattended.

3. Choose Lower-Impact Fireworks

There’s no such thing as a fully sustainable firework, but some are designed to do less harm. Look for fireworks that use nitrogen-based propellants, which produce fewer toxic chemicals. Options that create less smoke and use reduced plastic packaging are also a step in the right direction.

Choose ground-level or low-level fireworks like Catherine wheels or Roman candles, which are easier to clear up and cause less disruption to wildlife. If possible, opt for quieter models to reduce stress on pets and local animals.

Dispose of all fireworks safely. Soak spent fireworks and sparklers in water for at least 48 hours before putting them in the general waste bin. Even though many are made from cardboard and plastic, they can’t be recycled due to residual chemicals that contaminate other materials.

4. Explore Fire-Free Bonfire Night Activities

There are many creative ways to enjoy Bonfire Night without lighting fireworks at all. Some families take evening walks with handmade lanterns or light up their gardens with solar lamps and fairy lights. Others bake traditional treats like toffee apples, parkin or gingerbread to share with friends and neighbours.

In some towns, drone light shows are beginning to replace traditional fireworks, offering a modern, low-impact twist on the usual spectacle. For children, reusable LED toys or light-up games bring a sense of fun without the noise or pollution. These alternative bonfire night activities can create the same warmth and wonder, without the heightened environmental cost.

5. Host a Low-Waste Gathering

A few simple changes can make your Bonfire Night event more sustainable, with less waste:

• Use reusable plates, cups and cutlery instead of disposables, or borrow a reusable kit from your local hub through the Party Kit Network
• Set up clearly labelled bins for recycling and composting
• Serve food in larger portions to cut down on packaging waste
• Choose local, seasonal produce wherever possible
• Collect bottles, cans and plastic drinks containers for recycling or take them to a bottle bank if needed
• Decorate with autumn leaves, seasonal foliage or reusable bunting instead of plastic decorations
• Encourage guests to walk, cycle or car share

If you’re planning food, check what you already have in your fridge or freezer and make use of leftovers the next day. Classic dishes like baked potatoes, soups and homemade snacks reduce food waste and still feel festive.

Bonfire Night FAQs

Are there eco-friendly fireworks?

Yes, there are eco-friendly fireworks. Eco friendly fireworks are made with cleaner-burning propellants, such as nitrogen-based compounds, which reduce smoke and release fewer harmful chemicals into the air. While they are not entirely pollution-free, eco-friendly fireworks are a better alternative to conventional types when used responsibly.

What day is Bonfire Night?

Bonfire Night takes place every year on November 5th. The date marks the anniversary of the failed Gunpowder Plot of 1605. Celebrations often include fireworks, bonfires and community gatherings, although these may be on the days surrounding the 5th of November too.

Is Bonfire Night bad for the environment?

Bonfire Night can be bad for the environment. The combination of fireworks and bonfires contributes to air pollution, litter, toxic chemical release and disturbance to wildlife. However, by attending public displays, avoiding bonfires and choosing lower-impact activities, the environmental damage of Bonfire Night can be significantly reduced.

What are the environmental risks of bonfires?

The environmental risks of bonfires include releasing harmful pollutants such as carbon monoxide, particulates and toxic gases, especially when burning treated wood or household waste. Bonfires can also disturb wildlife and damage habitats if not carefully planned. Avoiding bonfires or keeping them minimal helps limit these risks.

How should I dispose of fireworks safely?

To dispose of fireworks safely, soak all used fireworks and sparklers in a bucket of water for at least 48 hours before placing them in your general waste bin. Fireworks cannot be recycled due to the residual chemicals and risk of contamination. Safe disposal helps prevent accidental fires and reduces environmental harm.

Sources:

• https://www.gov.uk/government/news/keep-it-clean-and-safe-this-bonfire-night
• https://www.recyclenow.com/how-to-recycle/eco-friendly-bonfire-night
• https://www.independent.co.uk/climate-change/sustainable-living/bonfire-night-2024-eco-fireworks-b2640890.html

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