What exactly are green crackers, how do they affect pollution, and why has their use been permitted with restrictions?

As Diwali approaches, the debate over firecrackers and pollution has once again intensified. Considering the deteriorating air quality in Delhi-NCR, the Supreme Court has maintained the ban on traditional firecrackers but allowed the limited use of green crackers. People will be permitted to use these special crackers from October 18 to 21.

What are Green Crackers?
Green crackers are less harmful to the environment compared to traditional firecrackers. They have been developed by CSIR-NEERI (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research – National Environmental Engineering Research Institute). These crackers are made using chemicals that produce less air and noise pollution.

They do not contain toxic substances like barium nitrate, arsenic, and lead, which are commonly found in regular firecrackers. Instead, green crackers use potassium-based compounds, reduced aluminum content, and other low-emission materials. Some specific types of green crackers, such as SWAS and SAFAL, release water vapor that helps suppress dust particles.

What is their impact on pollution?
Green crackers cause 30% to 50% less pollution than traditional ones. They emit lower levels of PM2.5, PM10, sulfur dioxide (SO₂), and nitrogen oxides (NOx). They are also better in terms of noise pollution, as their sound level usually remains below 125 decibels.

However, it is clear that green crackers are not completely pollution-free. They still release some harmful gases and affect air quality to a certain extent.

Why is caution necessary?
Although green crackers are a better option, the market is flooded with fake green crackers. Authentic green crackers are only those certified by CSIR and marked with a QR code. Selling crackers as “green” without this code is deceptive.

Lack of public awareness and the limited availability of genuine green crackers remain major challenges. Therefore, people should use only certified green crackers and do their part to protect the environment.

Celebrating festivals like Diwali is important, but not at the cost of the environment. Green crackers are a better alternative, but their responsible and limited use is the key to reducing air pollution.