As the city of London prepares for a major fireworks display in Harris Park on Friday, it is a day some fear the intensive use of fireworks.

Beka Amendola, a student at King's University and Fanshawe College, has repeatedly called for a ban on fireworks.

She said so far her appeals to the city have fallen on deaf ears. Amendola explained that "the council here in London has declared a climate emergency."

"Fireworks cause particles that never disappear. They kill animals, birds, and people can actually have heart attacks."

Amendola, who studied environmental earth sciences and social work, said she conducted research on the effects of fireworks and believes they cause more harm than good.

Emma Carrasco, who runs the Kaboom Fireworks trailer in Masonville, said she agrees that fireworks can be harmful to the environment.

However, she does not think there should be a total ban.

She said: "Many people find enjoyment in them and use them to celebrate holidays." "So I think that is why they should definitely be more strictly regulated, but not completely banned."

Meanwhile, Amendola wants London to consider replacing public fireworks displays with laser shows – an option she said has been successfully used recently in the Hyde Park area of London.