The Impact of the New Year Celebration on the Air-Pollution in Slovakia

Fireworks and pyrotechnics are an integral part of the New Year celebration that take place both in cities and rural areas as well. Depending on the meteorological conditions, these activities can raise air pollutant concentrations in ambient atmosphere. In order to estimate the size of this increase, air pollutant concentrations from up to 61 air quality stations situated in the Slovak Republic in period from 2010 to 2023 are analysed. Pollutant concentrations of PM10, PM2.5, CO, NO2, SO2, O3 and benzene from New Year's Eve evening to New Year's morning are compared with data from 25 December to 7 January. In case of PM10 557 cases were analysed. Among them in 64 % the significant exceedance in concentrations which can be attributed to the New Year celebration with high probability was observed. The statistical difference between mean PM10 concentrations during the New Year celebration hours and during the surrounding days was strong (p ≤ 0,001). For PM2.5 the situation was similar. The New Year celebration affects other pollutant concentrations studied in this work in less extend. For them it is difficult to attribute the exceedance to the fireworks. This analysis provides clear evidence of the negative impact of fireworks and pyrotechnics on the air quality, which can lead to public health risks. This work can support policy makers to implement more stringent strategies to reduce air pollution and its effects on health.