Thu Sep 12 18:36:00 UTC 2024: ## Costa Rica Moves to Ban Noise-Producing Fireworks for the Sake of People and Animals
**San José, Costa Rica** – Costa Rica is on the verge of banning fireworks that produce excessive noise, aiming to protect people, animals, and the environment from their harmful effects. The Environment Commission of the Legislative Assembly has advanced the procedure for Law File 23.572, which would enforce this ban.
The proposed law, spearheaded by legislator Alexander Barrantes, specifically targets pyrotechnic devices exceeding 85 decibels. Barrantes emphasized the need to safeguard individuals with hypersensitivity, children, pregnant women, and pets from the detrimental impacts of loud fireworks.
“We want to ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday season for everyone,” said Barrantes. “While traditional fireworks like sparklers and colored lights will still be allowed, we need to prioritize the well-being of those who are negatively affected by excessive noise.”
The initiative gained support from the College of Psychology Professionals of Costa Rica, which issued a statement urging the avoidance of noisy fireworks during the holiday season to ensure a peaceful environment for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Several studies highlight the detrimental effects of loud fireworks on people with ASD, causing anxiety, fear, and even panic, leading to escape behaviors. Additionally, fireworks can induce terror in animals, leading to alterations in their nervous systems, fear, injuries, and even death.
Juan Carlos Peralta, Director of ABA Animal, lauded the bill as a significant step forward in protecting both wildlife and domestic animals from the negative impacts of noise pollution.
The proposed law outlines fines for individuals using noise-producing fireworks, ranging from two to ten base salaries depending on the decibel level of the device. Fines collected will be used to raise awareness about the dangers of pyrotechnics for both humans and animals.
Companies currently possessing noise-producing fireworks will have two years to dispose, sell, import, or export such products following the law’s official publication in the official newspaper La Gaceta.
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