A petition calling for reform of Iceland’s fireworks legislation has passed 1,000 signatures, with organisers arguing that New Year celebrations should be made safer for both people and animals.
The petition was launched last Wednesday by horse owner Dagrún Sunna and remains open until 6 February. The petition can be found on island.is.
As reported by DV, Dagrún Sunna says the goal is not to end New Year festivities, but to reduce risks and harm linked to widespread private firework use.
“We all want to have a fun New Year’s Eve, but I want both humans and animals to feel good. With this list, we can request changes to the laws and regulations regarding fireworks,” she wrote in the petition statement.
In a separate Facebook post, she added: “Every year we celebrate the New Year with fireworks and parties. It’s a fun tradition, but in recent years I think it’s become a little too rough,” referring to strain on fire services, injuries and air pollution during calm weather.
She also highlighted animal welfare concerns, writing: “What I find most serious about these issues, however, is the effect that fireworks have on animals, and I don’t think people fully realize that. Pets, livestock and wild animals can’t find any shelter from the terrible explosions all around them, and it seems like they’ll never end.”
She cited cases of horses panicking and breaking out of stables.
The petition points to measures adopted elsewhere, including restricting public sales and replacing private fireworks with organised displays or light shows.