People handed in just over 1,600 kilograms of fireworks at special government collection points over the past week, according to figures from the Ministry of Justice and Security. The largest amount was collected in Zwolle, where 528 kilograms were surrendered. Amsterdam received 342.1 kilograms, followed by Haarlem with 254 kilograms and Leiden with 179.5 kilograms.
The surrender campaign has been running since the beginning of September. In one month, people have handed in nearly six tonnes of fireworks. Collection points will remain open for another week in Alkmaar, Groningen, Leeuwarden, Heerenveen, Zoetermeer and Hoorn before the campaign ends.
The amount of fireworks voluntarily surrendered is small compared with the quantity seized by authorities. Since the start of this year, customs officials and police have intercepted more than 45,000 kilograms of fireworks. In 2025, they seized more than 142,000 kilograms. Authorities do not know how many fireworks remain undetected.
Consumer fireworks are banned nationwide for the upcoming New Year’s Eve celebrations. People may only set off small display fireworks, such as sparklers.
@anp | NEWS BRAINPORT
