J&B Recycling Knowledge

Bonfire Night has long been a date on the UK calendar, filled with fireworks and bonfires. But in recent years, the celebration has sparked an important conversation about its environmental impact. From rising air pollution levels to litter left behind in parks and streets, Bonfire Night can be one of the most polluting events of the year - but it doesn't have to be!

As we mark Bonfire Night 2025, it’s worth asking: how can we keep the sparkle without the smoke?

Fireworks Pollution: The Hidden Cost of Celebration

Supply chain issues have reduced UK fireworks imports by as much as 70% and pushed prices up by over 25%. Yet despite the rising costs, demand for fireworks remains strong, with more people choosing to host smaller displays at home.

Research from the University of Leeds found that levels of soot and particulate matter in the air during Bonfire Night celebrations can be 100 times higher than usual. Air Quality News also observed spikes in particulate levels across major UK cities, with London’s PM2.5 levels reaching 48µg/m³ - almost triple the typical daily average.

According to DEFRA, Bonfire Night is responsible for the single largest annual spike in air pollutants such as:

- Sulphur Dioxide (SO₂)

- Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂)

- Carbon Monoxide (CO)

- Fine Particulate Matter (PM2.5)

Firework Waste and Recycling: What Happens After the Show?

Once the sparks fade, the physical waste remains. Firework debris, cardboard casings, and littered packaging often end up in landfills, or worse, on the ground where animals can ingest harmful materials.

Unfortunately, used and unused fireworks cannot be recycled. The safest disposal method is to soak them in water to remove any remaining flammable material and then place them in general waste. The same goes for sparklers, which are coated with combustible chemicals.

To help reduce the amount of waste generated after Bonfire Night, consider opting for eco-friendly fireworks or even laser and light drone shows, which produce fewer pollutants and no physical debris. Avoid cheap, mass-produced fireworks with excessive plastic or cardboard packaging, as these often end up in landfill. After the celebrations, make sure to collect and properly dispose of all litter, taking it home or using clearly marked recycling points provided at public events. Small actions like these can significantly reduce the environmental footprint of Bonfire Night festivities.

Eco-Friendly Bonfire Night Tips for 2025

You don’t have to give up the fun to stay sustainable. With a few mindful changes, you can reduce your environmental impact and still enjoy the night.

1. Use Sustainable Firewood – Choose locally sourced or reclaimed wood for your bonfire instead of treated timber or painted wood, which release toxins when burned

2. Host a Community Bonfire – Fewer fires mean fewer emissions. Most councils often create one larger, shared celebration

3. Go Reusable – Swap disposable plates and cups for reusable ones. Provide recycling bins and encourage guests to bring their own containers.

4. Source Local Food & Drink – Cut transport emissions by buying from local producers or farm shops.

5. Light Smart – Use LED or solar-powered lights instead of generators or fuel-burning torches.

6. Wildlife Check – Always inspect your bonfire before lighting it. Hedgehogs and other small animals often shelter in wood piles.

7. Clean Responsibly – Once the fire is fully extinguished and cooled, collect debris and separate recyclables from waste.

8. Support a Cause – Consider donating part of your fireworks budget to an environmental or wildlife charity.

Keep the Night Fun and Injury-Free

- Always light fireworks on a flat, stable surface, away from flammable materials.

- Never relight a dud, wait at least 20 minutes and soak it in water.

- Keep a bucket of water or sand nearby.

- Supervise children with sparklers and ensure they’re wearing gloves

- Never use petrol or accelerants to start a bonfire.

Building a Cleaner Bonfire Night with J&B Recycling

At J&B Recycling, we’re passionate about helping North East communities reduce waste year-round, especially during high-waste events like Bonfire Night.

Our recycling services operate across Teesside, Durham, Gateshead, Newcastle, Sunderland, North Tyneside, Northumberland, and North Yorkshire, helping businesses and councils divert waste from landfill through smarter, more sustainable solutions.

Every firework display leaves an environmental mark, but by choosing sustainable materials, disposing of waste properly, and recycling where possible, we can all play a part in keeping Bonfire Night bright and green.