The Philippines-based environmental justice organization, BAN Toxics, has launched its "Avoid Firecrackers, Avoid Accidents, Avoid Pollution" campaign, advocating for safe and eco-friendly ways to celebrate Christmas and New Year.
This initiative addresses the dual concerns of public safety and environmental protection, resonating with communities across Asia that face similar challenges during festive periods.
Reynaldo San Juan, Jr., Executive Director of BAN Toxics, emphasized the campaign's focus on safeguarding children from the dangers posed by fireworks and the pollution they cause.
"Let us ensure a safe and responsible holiday celebration this season, one that prevents harm to our children," San Juan urged.
The campaign officially began on December 10 in Barangay Payatas, Quezon City, Philippines, aligning with International Human Rights Day.
The launch event attracted approximately 2,000 participants, including students, educators, parents, local residents, community leaders, and representatives from the Philippine National Police and the Bureau of Fire Protection.
The Philippine Department of Health has reported a troubling rise in fireworks-related injuries over recent years, with cases climbing from 123 in 2020 to 609 in 2023.
This escalating trend mirrors regional concerns in many Asian countries, where similar issues occur during year-end celebrations.
In response, BAN Toxics has called for stricter government measures to monitor and confiscate banned and hazardous fireworks.
Prohibited items, such as piccolo and giant whistle bombs, are notorious for their high risk of injury. The organization also highlighted the toxic chemicals in fireworks—including cadmium, lead, chromium, magnesium, and nitrates—which can severely affect the nervous and respiratory systems.
BAN Toxics reaffirmed its dedication to promoting safe, environmentally sustainable festivities.
"We will keep advocating for safer, eco-friendly celebrations to ensure the health and safety of the public, especially children, during this festive season," San Juan stated.
The campaign also aligns with the Catholic Church's call in the Philippines for collaborative action to protect the environment and eliminate harmful traditions for the welfare of future generations.
This sentiment echoes a shared responsibility across Asia to preserve the planet and its people.
Through this initiative, BAN Toxics underscores the importance of shifting toward sustainable practices that prioritize safety, health, and ecological responsibility, fostering a meaningful and impactful way to celebrate the holidays.
Radio Veritas Asia (RVA), a media platform of the Catholic Church, aims to share Christ. RVA started in 1969 as a continental Catholic radio station to serve Asian countries in their respective local language, thus earning the tag “the Voice of Asian Christianity.” Responding to the emerging context, RVA embraced media platforms to connect with the global Asian audience via its 21 language websites and various social media platforms.
Latest News
