A That's series where we ask a Shanghai-based somebody to tell us 5 Things specific to his or her life.
Shanghai's local government has recruited a team of over 300,000 volunteers to help enforce a strict firework ban within the Outer Ring Road during Chinese New Year. These volunteers can be seen patrolling the streets while dressed in bright orange or red “peace vests," and even expats can get involved.
Ahead of the final day of Spring Festival, we spoke with 60-year old Hongkou district volunteer Ma Lingying (pictured at top), about what effect banning fireworks has had on the environment and her personal experiences volunteering with the city — including the one time she left a family dinner to help enforce the ban.
1. "I personally don't like to set off fireworks myself."
Especially because it causes a lot of noise at night. In fact, setting off fireworks is not really a great activity to engage in because it causes severe air pollution issues. Now, having that under control, everyone can have a good night's sleep during the holiday.
As for the atmosphere of the New Year celebration, even though there may not be fireworks [anymore], I feel that the celebrations are [still] enjoyable.
To volunteer for this cause is my intention, because by doing so I can make my own contributions to this city.
2. The 'peace vests' come in two colors.
Our volunteers have two colors of vests: red or orange, both of which are my favorite colors.
3. "Everyone seems to be cooperative."
I started volunteering two years ago. Whether it was being in the neighborhood or just patrolling the streets, I’ve yet to run into someone who was just looking to cause problems. Everyone seems to be cooperative when it comes to obeying this particular law.
4. The hours are odd.
The neighborhood committees help us volunteers arrange our shifts to make sure we have enough time... This year, my shift started in the early morning from 5am to 8am on New Year’s Eve, 8pm to 1.30am on the fourth day of the holiday and from 6am to 8am on the fifth day. [Ed. note: Ma's nephew told us she once left a family dinner to go volunteer].
Last year was the same, but the organizers make sure that being with family — especially on New Year’s Eve — is a priority. Shifts are flexible.
The weather is very cold but as long as you wear lots of clothing and feel joyful inside, it should keep you warm. Shanghai’s air conditions have been great without the fireworks and everyone seems happier about it.
5. "We must think of protecting our environment."
And we should recommend taking these measures to control fireworks in other cities in China.
People are getting sick of lighting fireworks, and even my grandson knows not to set off fireworks for the sake of protecting the environment.
Right now, the situation within Shanghai’s Middle and Inner Ring Roads is quite stable, but the neighboring districts still have a habit of continuing the loud custom.
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