We join the appeal of the State Council for Nature Conservation to refrain from using pyrotechnic products as an expression of celebration, for the sake of the environment, animals and ourselves!

The New Year is a time when pyrotechnic products such as fireworks and firecrackers are commonly used. Unfortunately, the bang they cause causes animals - both wildlife, livestock and domestic animals - terror and stress, leaving them at risk of suffering and often losing their health or even their lives.

The natural damage caused by this cannonade is observed both outside built-up areas and in urban centers. In early January, dead animals are regularly found. New Year's Eve night can be particularly tragic for birds, which take to flight in panic, and in the darkness some of them crash into various obstacles. Other animals, due to the noise and flashes caused by fireworks, are awakened from their winter sleep, which reduces their chances of surviving the winter.

Animals under human care also suffer. Sometimes they escape from the farmyards of homes, and some of them are never found again. During the New Year period, many owners of dogs and cats are forced to give them tranquilizers. Huge stress is also experienced by animals in shelters, rehabilitation centers, asylums and zoos. Studies show that fireworks explosions affect animals within a radius of at least 10 km. This means that there are few places in Poland free from the "New Year's Eve effect."

Reducing the use of fireworks also means fewer fires and the cost of rescue operations, as well as the suffering and treatment of injured people, including children. It also means less waste and pollution associated with the production and setting off of such products.

At a time when tradition dictates, among other things, to listen to the voice of animals, the State Council for Nature Conservation urges people to refrain from using pyrotechnic products. Let's celebrate joyfully, but let nature continue in peace!

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