Bonfire Night to reduce air quality in the UK

Bonfire Night is likely to reduce the air quality in areas of the UK, it has been suggested.

The Environment Agency has been urging people in Britain to think about the atmosphere this Guy Fawkes Night on Friday (November 5th 2010).

It stated that while people want to have a great time, they should avoid burning waste as it will cause damage to the environment and lower the air quality in the country.

Senior environment officer for the organisation Peter Stark said: "Burning certain types of material can cause pollution and damage people's health."

He stated: "If you're not sure something is safe to burn, don't put it on your bonfire."

Materials which should not be burned include plastics, rubber, glass, household waste, mattresses and metal.

Aerosols are particularly dangerous and could cause poisonous fumes to leak into the atmosphere.

Anyone who puts dangerous items on the bonfire risks a fine of up to £50,000.

The Environment Agency permits the burning of waste as long as the location is appropriate, the material is kept securely before being burnt and it does not cause pollution.

Posted by Claire Manning