It’s that time of the year again! The sun is out, the watermelon is cut, and you’ve just made friends with that person who owns a boat. One thing remains uncertain, where do you put those fireworks you’ve just set off? Should you throw it in the trash? Put in with hazardous waste? Even recycle them? (Spoiler alert: please don’t recycle them). Read below for a step-by-step guide on how to safely and sustainably dispose of fireworks and sparklers, so that the only explosion is the one that’s in the sky.
- Soak Before You Toss
After the fireworks have completely cooled, submerge used fireworks in a bucket of water overnight. This ensures they’re no longer a fire hazard. - Wrap & Trash
Once they have soaked overnight, wrap the wet fireworks in plastic or a garbage bag to prevent them from drying out. Then, dispose of them with your regular household trash. Never put fireworks (used or unused) in your recycling bin. - Unused or Duds? Handle With Care
If you have unused fireworks or duds that didn’t ignite, contact your local fire department or hazardous waste facility. Never try to light a dud or store fireworks for long periods. - Keep It Clean
After a celebration, make sure to pick up all leftover debris (casings, wrappers, and packaging) and dispose of them properly. Many of these items are not recyclable due to chemical residue.
By taking a few extra steps, you can help keep your neighborhood safe and reduce the environmental impact of holiday fun!
And remember, for a sustainable Fourth of July (or any holiday!), skip the single-use consumption. Serve snacks using your own reusable cups and dishes instead of disposable plates and cups. Pull red, white, and blue attire from your closet rather than buying fast fashion holiday fits. Avoid disposable decor for your holiday gathering and instead focus on making (safe, sustainable) memories. Happy Fourth of July!
