The impact of feasts on the environment

I refer to the contribution by Ray Mangion on the value of fireworks (June 24). He was commenting on the report published by the Environment Commission of the Archdiocese of Malta on the environmental impact of feasts. It is not in the nature of this commission to enter into any controversy, if not to rectify any offensive and inaccurate statements. Some of Mr Mangion's statements were both. In its opening sentences the report by the commission recognised the fundamental fact that "the religious feasts of our towns and villages are an important part of our culture and of our way of life... and so they should remain. These feasts offer recreation and pleasure to many thousands of people. They have also become an essential element in what Malta offers to tourists and they should also help to present to visitors an authentic element of Maltese culture".

Furthermore, the report recognises the value of fireworks to such feasts, and therefore the need to improve them by successfully controlling any present excesses and negative impacts.

In fact the aim of the report was to identify any such excesses and negative environmental impacts that feasts may have. To do so, a study was specifically commissioned to investigate some of the effects of fireworks and the waste generated during feasts. The commission did not "grab someone's dissertation" in doing so. Other assessments being partly financially assisted by the commission are presently ongoing.

Fireworks and feasts may indeed prove to be a "gift horse" as Mr Mangion claims, but no untouchable sacred cow.

In its report, the commission makes specific recommendations on how to improve the present situation. We are certain that through the cooperation of all involved, including societies and associations, any excesses and risks arising from our feasts may be controlled so as to ensure their true Christian identity will be retained and enhanced. This should include due consideration and respect to others. The commission is ready to undertake various initiatives to help bring this about. We invite Mr Mangion to join us in such initiatives.