Public surveys indicate that 80% of citizens support the ban, the NGO said.
In its letter to Božinović, the NGO demands a ban on the sale and use of all noisy pyrotechnic devices from the F2 and F3 categories, restrictions on the use of permitted pyrotechnics to the period between 29 and 31 December, restrictions on the use of allowed light pyrotechnics to between 11 PM and 1 AM on New Year's Eve, and a ban on pyrotechnic advertising.
If we want to reduce injuries to children, animal fatalities, and environmental pollution, we need concrete and drastic measures, said Snježana Klopotan Kačavenda, a coordinator in the NGO.
She pointed out that during the previous holiday season and New Year celebrations, police, firefighters, and doctors were overwhelmed with incidents caused by the misuse of pyrotechnic devices. As long as they are allowed, nothing can stop citizens from using them, she added.
The NGO noted that a complete ban on noisy pyrotechnics would likely be welcomed by the majority of citizens and is in line with initiatives in other European countries.
The Interior Ministry banned the sale and use of certain pyrotechnic articles in 2021.