Filenews 28 January 2026
In view of the Carnival celebrations, the Office of the Commissioner for the Environment and Animal Welfare, Antonia Theodosiou, recommends to the public for the responsible and prudent use of carnival products, such as foam sprays, streamers, confetti, etc., with the aim of ensuring the safety of citizens, as well as protecting the environment and maintaining the cleanliness of public spaces.
A relevant announcement states that these carnival products are accompanied by instructions for use and bear risk/precaution labelling on the packaging, as provided by law, and must be carefully read and strictly followed, especially by adults who obtain them or allow their use by children.
Improper and irresponsible use of such products can create health and safety risks, especially in conditions of mass events, as some contain chemicals that may cause irritation to the eyes, skin and respiratory system, especially in children, people with asthma or allergies, it is noted.
Their use indoors or outdoors with increased crowding, as well as direct or accidental spraying on the face and skin, increase the risk of discomfort or injury, it added.
At the same time, it is recommended to avoid the use of lightweight plastic objects, such as confetti, streamers and balloons, which are easily transported by the wind and end up in the natural environment, while over time they break down into microplastics with serious effects on the environment and, by extension, on human health.
The need for responsible disposal of both the contents and packaging of such carnival products, as well as other objects or food or drink waste, is also highlighted. The indiscriminate throwing of foam, other materials and packaging in public places, in addition to pollution, makes road surfaces and pedestrian walkways slippery, increasing the risk of falls and injuries, and disrupts the smooth running of events, it is noted.
Finally, an appeal is also made to the local authorities to, during carnival events, install special bins for the deposit of used containers and other materials and then take care of their proper management and the public is urged to use these bins and not to dispose of empty containers or other objects on the streets.
CNA
