Japanese researchers and a fireworks manufacturer have developed and commercialised water soluble eco fire works shells and canisters, which may be the world’s first such products. The Japanese eco-friendly fireworks were developed by Ryukoku University professor Takahiko Nakaoki and Hiroyuki Kakinoki, president of Kakinoki Fireworks Industry Co., to reduce debris left behind after fireworks shows.
Kakinoki plans to produce 20,000 fireworks this year, with a target of making around 10,000 new eco-friendly versions.
The partnership began in 2018, when Kakinoki was exploring ways to make fireworks shells environmentally friendly. After repeated difficulties with resin materials, he met Nakaoki and the two began working on a different approach.
The water-soluble fireworks shells use an existing water-soluble resin already used for agricultural seeds and soil improvement. When exposed to water, the shell becomes soft and breaks down into the surrounding ecosystem. This could reduce the need for street sweeping and other cleanup after fireworks displays.
The innovation is particularly relevant in Japan, where many fireworks shows take place over rivers, lakes and the ocean. Most shells that fall into water are expected to dissolve within hours.
The team has also reduced packaging waste. While kraft paper remains necessary to protect the shells from moisture during storage, the new design uses around half as much paper as before.
