DRPG closes fireworks department on ethical grounds

DRPG has closed the CMD (Corporate Media Displays) brand, which has been responsible for the group’s pyrotechnics, fireworks and large outdoor displays for the past 10 years.

The group’s board decided unanimously that the department’s practices did not align with the sustainable ethos and environmental standard upheld by the B Corp certified company.

DRPG said pyrotechnics and fireworks release many contaminants that can contribute to climate change, including carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, nitrogen, sulphur dioxide and particulate matter, as well as creating noise pollution. The company believes it can offer equally exciting yet safer displays for award ceremonies and celebratory events.

During the pandemic, DRPG acknowledged the hard work of the UK’s National Health Service by projection mapping large-scale interactive imagery across the exterior of its studio complex.

Nick Fagan, creative technologist at DRPG, said: “We’ve taken an interest in using drones to create more-sustainable displays that are as equally expressive as traditional fireworks but, more importantly, fully customisable and renewable.

“Unlike fireworks, drones can be programmed for more than one event, saving loads on resources – both material and technical. We certainly have the electricity to power them: for instance, our solar-powered headquarters in Hartlebury often exports more to the grid than we use.

“Drones are becoming more and more affordable each year – and that’s only one solution.”

Chief executive Dale Parmenter said: “At DRPG, we believe ourselves a convoy of sustainability, putting people and place at the forefront of our beliefs, aspiring to benefit all through our services. The closure of CMD has enabled us to make positive change, so we can excel further in the environmental and sustainability landscape.”