Gyalze fireworks could cause stress disorder in wildlife, association says

The China Small Animal Protection Association said on Tuesday that it is following closely the development of a fireworks display in the Himalaya Mountains that drew widespread criticism, expressing concern over the effect on the fragile ecosystem of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.

On Friday, Chinese visual artist Cai Guoqiang and outdoor brand Arc'teryx launched three fireworks, at an altitude of 5,500 meters in Gyalze county, Shigatse, Xizang autonomous region.

Cai and Arc'teryx apologized on Sunday for staging the display.

The association said in its WeChat official account post that the region, home to species including the Tibetan antelope and snow leopard, had been affected by loud noises, bright lights and smoke from the fireworks.

These could lead to stress disorder in wildlife, potentially causing them to abandon their habitats, separating mother animals and their cubs, and threatening their survival, it added.

The association said it strongly opposes activities that disrupt animal habitats.

"Apologies are just the beginning. Action is the point, including third-party evaluations of environmental elements and the influence on the survival and reproduction of animals," it said.

Targeted habitat restoration for small animals like pikas should be conducted. Technology should be used to monitor wildlife populations to support conservation strategies, the association added.

The association said it will supervise the remedial actions to ensure their implementation. It will also popularize knowledge on social media platforms and advocate for adopting a low-carbon lifestyle.

It urged artists, businesses and society to prioritize animal rights and environmental protection in planning events.

"Artistic innovation or commercial success should not come at the cost of animal welfare and the environmental health," it said.