The science behind the sparkle: green crackers are cleaner, not clean, Pg16.

Key Highlights:

• Green crackers, developed by CSIR-NEERI, aim to reduce pollution during festivals by using improved chemical formulations.
• These crackers are branded as SWAS, STAR, and SAFAL, and claim to have 30-40% lower emissions than traditional fireworks.
• Green crackers replace barium nitrate with less toxic substances, but still emit harmful particulate matter and metallic residues.
• Studies show that green crackers can increase ultrafine particles (UFPs), which pose significant health risks due to their ability to penetrate deep into the lungs.
• Despite the presence of a QR code for verification, counterfeit green crackers challenge the effectiveness of the certification system.
• India is the only country with a formal government-backed program for developing and certifying low-emission fireworks.

Detailed Insights:

• Traditional firecrackers contain chemicals like potassium nitrate, barium nitrate, and aluminum powder that release harmful pollutants, including PM2.5, PM10, SO2, and NOx.
• Green crackers reduce toxic metals and introduce additives like zeolite and iron oxide to capture soot, but still contain trace amounts of aluminum, copper, and strontium.
• Research indicates that residues from green crackers contaminate soil with metals like Al, Ba, Sr, and Mg, although to a lesser extent than traditional fireworks.
• UFPs released by green crackers can cause respiratory, cardiovascular, and neurological problems, with emergency rooms reporting increased breathing difficulties during festivals.
• While green crackers are a step towards cleaner celebrations, experts suggest they should be treated as a transitional measure, as they do not eliminate pollution entirely.
• Many countries have restricted or banned fireworks in urban areas due to air quality and safety concerns, while India has a formal program for low-emission fireworks.
• Addressing air pollution requires recognizing the impact of daily choices related to transportation, energy consumption, and waste management, and embracing behavioral changes.

Scientific/Technical Concepts Involved:

• PM2.5 and PM10: Fine particulate matter with diameters of 2.5 and 10 micrometers, respectively, that can penetrate deep into the lungs and cause respiratory problems.
• Ultrafine Particles (UFPs): Particles smaller than 100 nanometers that can enter the bloodstream and pose serious health risks.
• Sulphur Oxides (SOx): Gaseous air pollutants formed when fuel containing sulfur is burned, especially during industrial processes.
• Nitrogen Oxides (NOx): Gases formed when fuel is burned at high temperatures, contributing to smog and acid rain.