Restriction and Ban of Fireworks in China During Chinese New Year 

Residents lighting off fireworks and firecrackers to celebrate Chinese New Year
Source: AP Photo/ Andy Wong

Happy Chinese New Year everyone! Air pollution is making the headlines even during this festive season in China. The symbolic traditions of lighting fireworks and firecrackers during Chinese New Year are restricted or even banned in many cities this year.   

Unfortunately, many residents were still undeterred and went ahead to set off the pyrotechnics so as to bask in the festive mood. As a result, the air quality index indeed worsened significantly after 8pm last night as people lit up firecrackers to usher in the new year. 

From this simple example of how air pollution can result in the altering or restricting of our traditions, it is paramount that we start to realise how vulnerable humans are to the consequences of our activities, despite the advanced technologies that we may possess. Anthropogenic (man-made) activities are the main drivers of major environmental change today, ranging from air pollution to even global warming due to the emissions of pollutants and greenhouse gases. Stay tuned as I discuss on how the change in commuter behaviour such as the adopting of bike culture and reducing the reliance on private transportation, can massively contribute to better air quality and blue skies.