Federal Youth Council calls for an end to private firecrackers and fireworks

To the position

Stress test for the environment and society
For many people, New Year's Eve is a time for coming together, celebrating and starting afresh. At the same time, the turn of the year is an annual reminder of the massive impact of private fireworks: extreme levels of particulate matter, panicked animals, numerous injuries and overburdened rescue and emergency services. Added to this are the high costs for cleaning and repairs, which are borne by the local authorities and therefore the general public.

Protecting health and the environment
The Bundesjugendring is therefore in favour of a nationwide, year-round ban on the sale and private use of category F2 pyrotechnics. The youth organisations and youth rings make it clear that this is not about banning celebrations, but about protecting the environment, health and society. Young people and future generations in particular bear the long-term consequences of environmental and climate pollution.

Danger for people and emergency services
Private fireworks also pose a considerable safety risk. Numerous accidents occur every year, often involving children and young people as well as uninvolved third parties. The loud background noise also increases psychological stress, for example for traumatised people. For emergency services, New Year's Eve is regularly an exceptional situation in which they are also exposed to targeted attacks.

Alternatives instead of firecrackers
A ban on private fireworks can create space for new ways of celebrating together. The Bundesjugendring promotes professionally organised, centralised and safe alternatives such as light, laser or drone shows. These enable impressive communal experiences without noise, danger and environmental pollution. The Bundesjugendring therefore calls on politicians and local authorities to develop and promote appropriate concepts that focus on the protection of young people and the sustainable organisation of the New Year.