Chinese Artist Cai Guoqiang Blamed for Grassland Damage
A famous Chinese artist, Cai Guoqiang, and his sponsor will be held liable for damaging 300,000 square meters of ecologically sensitive Himalayan grassland in a fireworks display.
Authorities reported that several officials in Tibet, including the county party secretary, were removed from office and more are under investigation.
The Fireworks Display
Cai Guoqiang's studio set off 1,050 fireworks in a Tibetan mountain range to create a display resembling a dragon, called "Rising Dragon", which lasted 52 seconds.
- The display reached up to 5,020 meters (16,470 feet) above sea level in Gyantse County.
- The show was sponsored by Chinese-owned outdoor equipment brand Arc’teryx.
People accused it of environmental ignorance, sparking a massive backlash on Chinese social media.
Author's summary: Cai Guoqiang's fireworks damaged Himalayan grassland.