On 21/9, authorities in Shigatse, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, launched an investigation into a fireworks display organized by Canadian outdoor apparel brand Arc’teryx and artist Cai Guoqiang at the foot of the Himalayas, the South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported. The event was intended to promote an upcoming event.

The controversial display, titled "Flying Dragon," took place on 20/9 at an altitude of approximately 5,500 m. Multicolored fireworks illuminated the mountainside, with Arc’teryx describing the project as "using art to express the magnificence of nature."

Arc’teryx asserted that all fireworks materials were biodegradable and rigorously tested, meeting environmental standards of the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics, as well as those of Japan, the US, and Europe. The team stated they implemented ecological protection measures, relocating livestock and using salt to lure small animals away from the area. They also cleaned up any residue after the display.

The fireworks display in the Himalayas at 5,500 m. Photo: SCMP

The fireworks display in the Himalayas at 5,500 m. Photo: SCMP

The display immediately drew strong online criticism. Many argued the high-altitude ecosystem was too fragile for fireworks, criticizing the brand for its "lack of environmental awareness." Others questioned the local government's approval of the event.

Following the display, authorities dispatched an inspection team to the site and will handle the matter according to regulations.

Amid the backlash, Arc’teryx issued an apology on Chinese social media, pledging to invite professional environmental organizations to assess any ecological damage. The company said it would expedite its Tibet nature conservation plan and support local cultural projects.

"Public criticism reminds us that artistic evaluation requires greater professionalism, along with humility and respect for nature," a company representative said.

Cai Guoqiang also apologized, stating that if authorities determined the project caused environmental damage, he and the production team would "rectify it by all means."

The controversial multicolored fireworks display. Source: Tiktok/BigCan1881

A representative from the Gyantse County Ecology and Environment Bureau stated the project complied with regulations, requiring no environmental impact assessment due to the use of eco-friendly materials. Only local government approval was necessary. The fireworks were launched in Gyantse County, under the jurisdiction of Shigatse City.

"No ecological damage has been recorded so far, and we will continue to monitor," the official said.

However, environmental lawyers expressed concerns. Citing the Tibetan Plateau Ecological Protection Law, one lawyer noted that any act harming the natural landscape or vegetation, including littering, is prohibited and punishable. This law applies even without clear damage assessment or protected area designation.

The Himalayas beside the controversial fireworks display. Photo: Handout

The Himalayas beside the controversial fireworks display. Photo: Handout

The lawyer suggested the local government showed some lack of responsibility in protecting the highly sensitive plateau. The use of large-scale fireworks in this area is a serious concern.

"Our research in the region indicates that land restoration under the harsh climatic conditions of the plateau is extremely challenging," she said.

Mai Phuong (SCMP)