Netherlands launches national campaign to collect banned fireworks

The Netherlands has launched the ‘Lever je vuurwerk in’ (Hand in your fireworks) campaign following the implementation of the ‘Wet veilige jaarwisseling’ (Safe New Year's Eve Act) on August 1. This law prohibits the purchase, use, and possession of consumer fireworks within the country.

To facilitate the removal of existing stock, the government has organized national collection days throughout September and October. Citizens can hand in both recently banned consumer fireworks and previously illegal heavy fireworks safely, anonymously, and without facing fines. The initiative includes a mobile collection bus that will travel across the country and the establishment of regional collection points, such as one in Leiden scheduled for September 30.

The campaign features rapper Poke, who recorded the song ‘Vuurwerk Toedeloe’ to inform the public about the new regulations in an accessible manner. The legislation aims to reduce accidents, injuries, property damage, and violence against emergency responders, while also minimizing disturbances to people, animals, and the environment.