“Incomprehension and frustration”. That was the first reaction from pyrotechnician Andreas Büttner when he learned that the sale of New Year’s Eve fireworks – as was the case last year – is forbidden again this year. He hadn’t counted on it. “It was hoped that politicians would learn from their mistakes.”
Proponents of the decision fear that the firecracker on New Year’s Eve represents an additional burden for hospitals because of the risk of injury. Büttner sees it differently. “Of course I am aware of the seriousness of the situation,” says Grafinger. However, it is mainly excessive alcohol consumption that leads to hospital visits on New Year’s Eve. Not the fireworks. And if so, then it is illegal goods, the use of which is encouraged by the sales ban.
Büttner cannot understand the environmental aspect that is mentioned again and again: When it comes to the CO2 balance, wrong numbers are very often argued. “And we are also held responsible for all the garbage the next day.” In his opinion, however, it is the responsibility of the consumer to clear them up.
Would like to light up the district with “Roman lights” and other fireworks this year too: Andreas Büttner from Grafing.
(Photo: Christian Endt)
Büttner finds the lack of communication between his industry and politics particularly annoying. He also completely misses government aid or alternatives. “I just feel abandoned.”
The pyrotechnician stands “with his back to the wall”
Of course, the pyrotechnician has long since ordered the goods for New Year’s Eve 2021. And pretty much everything from last year is still in the warehouse. Nevertheless, he “never thought about giving up”. The Grafinger simply puts too much heart and soul into his job and his company. The economic pressure is getting bigger and bigger. Because apart from the New Year’s Eve sales, a large part of his business consists of pyro shows at major events, such as folk festivals. Since the corona pandemic, however, they have all been down as well.
Andreas Büttner does not yet know how he will spend his New Year’s Eve this year. Of course, he still hopes for a chance to sell his goods after all. But at the moment he is “really with his back to the wall”.