Four Chinese officials were dismissed over a controversial Arc'teryx fireworks display in Tibet, which sparked environmental concerns and online backlash. Arc'teryx and artist Cai Guo-Qiang apologized and pledged to help restore the affected area, using biodegradable materials and working with experts. The show impacted 30 hectares of grassland and briefly disturbed wildlife.
China Fires Officials Over Arc'teryx Fireworks Scandal in Tibet
Four Chinese officials have been dismissed following public outrage over a fireworks display in Tibet organized by outdoor clothing brand Arc'teryx and artist Cai Guo-Qiang.
The event, held last month in the Himalayas, featured a “rising dragon” of colorful fireworks bursting over the Tibetan landscape. Videos of the show quickly went viral, sparking environmental concerns and calls to boycott the brand.
Both Arc'teryx and Cai later issued public apologies. Authorities in Tibet’s Shigatse city announced Wednesday that additional officials had been investigated and formally warned. They also ordered Arc'teryx and Cai to provide compensation and assist in restoring the affected environment.
Officials reported that the minute-long fireworks display impacted around 30 hectares (74 acres) of grassland. While the damage was described as limited and short-term, they noted that further observation is required to evaluate potential “ecological risks.”
The statement added that the fireworks left behind debris such as plastic and remnants that were not properly cleared, and that the sudden light and noise temporarily disturbed local wildlife.
Among those dismissed were the Communist Party secretary of Gyantse county, its public security chief, and two senior officials from local environmental departments.
Cai, renowned for designing the fireworks at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, said he would collaborate with Tibetan authorities to support the recovery process.
The incident triggered a backlash online, with users accusing Arc'teryx of hypocrisy, saying the display contradicted its environmentally conscious image.
Founded in 1989, Arc'teryx operates over 150 stores worldwide and is owned by Hong Kong-listed Anta Sports. The company said the show was intended to celebrate mountain culture but admitted it “did not align with Arc'teryx’s values.” It also noted that biodegradable materials were used and pledged to work with independent experts to assess the environmental impact.