‘Green crackers create about 30% less pollution than conventional ones’

Green crackers are environmentally safer fireworks developed by CSIR–NEERI to reduce air and noise pollution. They use smaller shells, reduced chemicals and dust suppressants, leading to at least 30 per cent lower emissions of particulate matter (PM), sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen oxides (NO2) compared to conventional firecrackers.

On one hand, traditional crackers often contain toxic metals such as barium, strontium and copper, producing bright colours and harmful pollutants. On the other hand, green crackers do not contain barium compounds or heavy metals, have reduced aluminium and thermite content, and use potassium nitrate instead of highly polluting oxidisers. Green crackers’ common variants include flowerpots, pencils, sparklers, bombs and chakkaris.

Who certifies green crackers, how can one identify them?

All authentic green crackers are tested and certified by CSIR–NEERI. These can be identified through the official CSIR–NEERI logo and a QR code verifiable via the ‘CSIR NEERI Green QR Code App’ available on the Google Play Store.

What are the types of green crackers? Are green crackers completely pollution-free?

CSIR-NEERI has developed three key categories. The first one is SWAS (Safe Water Releaser), which releases water vapour to suppress dust and particulate matter. It also reduces PM by about 30–35 per cent, and is free from potassium nitrate and sulfur.

The second is STAR (Safe Thermite Cracker). This category employs a modified thermite composition, lowers gaseous emissions (SO2 and NO2) by 20–30 per cent, and produces less sound and residue.

The third category is SAFAL (Safe Minimal Aluminium). This uses minimal aluminium, substituting magnesium to maintain brightness, and cuts metallic and particulate emissions by about 30–35 per cent. These are not 100 per cent pollution-free, but they are significantly cleaner. Experts estimate that they emit about 30 per cent less pollution than conventional ones.

What about health and noise impacts?

Noise pollution remains a concern even with green crackers. Loud fireworks can commonly lead to hearing impairment, hypertension, sleep disturbances and anxiety. Hence, responsible use and adherence to time and decibel limits are essential.

What are precautions for using green crackers?

Some standard safety precautions for using the green crackers include buying only from licensed shops, using a long candle or lighter to maintain distance while igniting, avoiding crowded or enclosed spaces, keeping water and sand nearby for emergencies and wearing cotton clothing and shoes for protection.

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