TMTPOST -- Canadian outdoor apparel brand Arc'teryx is under scrutiny from Chinese authorities after a fireworks display in Tibet’s Himalayan region sparked widespread criticism over potential environmental and cultural impacts.
The event, held on September 19 and designed by internationally renowned Chinese artist Cai Guo-Qiang, featured multi-colored fireworks erupting across the mountain foothills in a pattern intended to resemble a dragon. Videos of the display circulated online, drawing backlash from netizens who questioned the ecological sensitivity of the stunt and accused the brand of undermining its conservation-focused image.
In a statement, Arc'teryx apologized for the event, calling it “out of line with Arc'teryx’s values” and promising to work with an external agency to assess its environmental impact. The company said all fireworks were made from biodegradable materials and that the display aimed to celebrate mountain culture.
Arc'teryx, founded in 1989, operates more than 150 stores worldwide and is owned by Hong Kong-listed fitness equipment company Anta Sports. The company partnered with Cai, a pyrotechnics master famous for overseeing the 2008 Beijing Olympics fireworks, to stage the high-altitude daytime spectacle called Rising Dragon in Tibet’s Shigatse region, at over 5,500 meters above sea level.
While organizers claimed precautionary measures were in place—including relocating livestock, guiding small animals away with salt bricks, and cleaning residue afterward—critics argued that even biodegradable fireworks could disrupt the fragile Himalayan ecosystem. Some raised concerns about potential effects on glaciers, local wildlife, and the plateau’s delicate vegetation. Others condemned the display as culturally insensitive, noting Tibetan traditions hold sacred the mountains where the event took place.
A representative for Arc'teryx acknowledged public criticism in a statement, saying: “The evaluation of the expression of art needs to be more professional, and we need to be more humble and respectful of nature.” Cai also apologized for his role, pledging to cooperate with authorities on ecological recovery efforts.
Local authorities in Gyangze County confirmed that the event was filed with the Ecology and Environment Bureau and complied with all procedural requirements. According to officials, because the fireworks were environmentally friendly, a full environmental assessment was not required, and approvals at township, village, and county levels were sufficient. The location was chosen outside protected ecological zones, with no residents nearby. Authorities reported no observed environmental damage and said monitoring would continue.
Despite the assurances, the online backlash has been significant. Many commenters described the display as “unforgivable” and criticized both Arc'teryx and Cai for potentially harming a sensitive ecosystem, regardless of intent or material used. Several social media users questioned how such a large-scale project received local approval.
Arc'teryx defended its choice of location and approach, emphasizing that the display was intended to honor nature, culture, and the environment, not to cause harm. The company also highlighted its adherence to eco-friendly practices, including using biodegradable colored powders that meet environmental standards.
Cai Guo-Qiang, born in 1957 in Quanzhou, Fujian Province, is internationally recognized for his large-scale pyrotechnic and gunpowder artworks. His portfolio includes installations such as Venice Rent Collection Courtyard, the Sky Ladder, and the giant Olympic “footprints” displayed at the 2008 Beijing Games. The artist has faced similar critiques for past outdoor exhibitions, but remains a prominent figure in contemporary art and pyrotechnics.
The controversy over the Rising Dragon display illustrates the growing tension between artistic expression and environmental responsibility, particularly in ecologically sensitive regions. For Arc'teryx, a brand known for its outdoor and conservation-friendly image, the backlash could have lasting reputational consequences in both China and international markets.
As of now, videos of the fireworks have been deleted from social media, and both Arc'teryx and Cai continue to review the situation with local authorities and external experts.
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