Arc'teryx Issues Apology for Controversial Tibetan Fireworks Display

Fri Oct 10 2025 22:27:55 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The outdoor brand Arc'teryx faces backlash after a fireworks event in Tibet, leading to an apology and promise to assess the environmental impact of the project.

Arc'teryx has apologized for a fireworks display in Tibet that drew criticism for contradicting its conservation-focused brand image. The event, created in collaboration with artist Cai Guo Qiang, has prompted an investigation by Chinese officials, as concerns about its environmental effects on the Himalayan ecosystem surfaced. The company pledges to evaluate the impact and ensure future initiatives align with its values.

Arc'teryx Issues Apology for Controversial Tibetan Fireworks Display

Chinese officials are investigating outdoor clothing brand Arc'teryx after it apologized for a fireworks display in the Himalayan region of Tibet, which drew backlash for its potential impact on the fragile ecosystem.

Videos from the September 19 event show multi-coloured fireworks erupting across foothills in a display designed by Chinese artist Cai Guo Qiang as part of a promotional campaign.

However, the show sparked a barrage of criticism online, with observers stating the stunt contradicts Arc'teryx's image as a conservation-focused brand and calling for a boycott of its clothing line.

The Canadian firm apologized for the display, stating it was out of line with Arc'teryx's values and pledged to work with an external agency to assess the project's environmental impact, claiming that biodegradable materials were used throughout.

The display aimed at raising awareness about mountain culture took place at over 5,000 meters in Tibet's Shigatse region, near significant peaks including Everest. The region is known for its fragile ecosystem and is sacred to many Tibetans, leading critics to question the decision-making that led to the project's approval.

Critics highlighted the danger to local wildlife and the overall ecosystem, emphasizing that the display's fireworks could disrupt the sensitive environment.

Following the company's apology, many comments highlighted that a single statement wouldn't suffice, demanding long-term accountability for any environmental repercussions.

Artist Cai Guo Qiang, who has previously gained fame for his pyrotechnic displays, also issued an apology for his role in the event, vowing to assist in remediation efforts.