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Open house: Does using green crackers during Diwali reduce air pollution?

Green crackers emit less, but aren’t pollution-free
A child purchases crackers ahead of Diwali in Amritsar. tribune photo: Vishal Kumar

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Provide subsidised green crackers

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It is a misconception that green crackers are pollution-free. In reality, they emit only 30 to 50 per cent fewer harmful chemicals compared to traditional crackers. Due to their higher cost and limited production due to low demand, traditional crackers continue to dominate the market. The general public often opts for these conventional crackers because they are cheaper and more readily available, leading to significant pollution despite official bans. The effectiveness of green crackers largely depends on public awareness, affordability and strict compliance. Past experiences show that pollution during festivals is not solely caused by firecrackers; other major contributors include stubble burning, industrial emissions, vehicular pollution, and noise. Therefore, focusing only on crackers to control pollution is not sufficient. A more effective solution would be to completely halt the production of traditional crackers and provide subsidised green crackers to the public. This approach would be more impactful in reducing pollution during festivals. Otherwise, the repeated imposition of bans on conventional crackers alone will continue to be ineffective in achieving a pollution-free Diwali. Anil Vinayak

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Emit 30-40% fewer particulate matter

Switching to green crackers during the Diwali festive season is a progressive stride toward mitigating air pollution. Green crackers, developed by India's Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), emit 30-40 per cent fewer particulate matter, sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides compared to conventional fireworks. In cities like Amritsar, where the golden hues of Harmandir Sahib shimmer beneath the Diwali sky, the adoption of eco-friendly alternatives symbolises both reverence and responsibility. While the reduction in pollution levels may not be monumental overnight, it signifies a collective awakening toward sustainable celebration. Amritsar, known for its spiritual vibrancy and bustling urban life, can set a precedent by embracing cleaner festivities - balancing joy with environmental stewardship. Ultimately, green crackers illuminate not only the sky but also the conscience of society, proving that true festivity lies in harmony between tradition and nature. PREETPAL SINGH CHHINA

Let’s celebrate eco-friendly Diwali

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Green crackers can reduce pollution to some extent, provided they are truly eco-friendly. But it is not just about firecrackers. During this time, traffic is at its peak and stubble is also burned to some extent in the villages of Amritsar, contributing to the increased levels of pollution. To bring the spirit of Diwali celebrations in full swing in a more sustainable way, we can opt for clay diyas, flowers for decoration and rangoli designs. We can use public transportation or pool vehicles to minimise vehicular emission. Efforts to minimise pollution by everyone would certainly be appreciated. Vijay Laxmi

Higher cost remains a major concern

Switching to green crackers this Diwali can indeed help reduce air pollution, as these crackers emit significantly less harmful chemicals and produce lower levels of noise and smoke compared to traditional ones. This is a commendable step towards making Amritsar's environment cleaner. However, the higher cost of green crackers remains a major concern, as not everyone can afford them. The steadily rising Air Quality Index (AQI) of the city is alarming and calls for immediate action. Apart from festive pollution, vehicular emissions are a major contributor to poor air quality. Over 50,000 unregistered auto-rickshaws, and nearly twice as many registered ones, operate in the city - many using petrol mixed with kerosene, a highly polluting fuel. The Amritsar administration must enforce strict regulations, ensure proper registration and encourage cleaner or electric alternatives to improve the city's air and safeguard public health. Manthan Rajput

A less harmful alternative

Green crackers used during Diwali festival do reduce air pollution as compared to traditional fire crackers. They are less toxic and produce less pollutants. Also the noise pollution is lower than the traditional fire crackers. The green crackers are a less harmful alternative and a step forward towards reducing air pollution levels. Harsumer Singh Gill

Produce less noise, no banned chemicals

Green crackers are designed to emit 30-40 per cent less harmful gases such as sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter compared to traditional fireworks. They also produce less noise and contain no banned chemicals like barium nitrate. However, even though they are a cleaner alternative, they still release smoke and pollutants into the air. If used on a large scale or in densely populated areas, the combined effect can still cause a noticeable increase in pollution levels. So, while green crackers are a step in the right direction, the best way to truly reduce air pollution during Diwali is to limit or avoid firecracker use altogether and celebrate in eco-friendly ways like lighting diyas, using decorations and promoting community events. Akshita Sharma

Avoid firecracker use altogether

As citizens, it is our collective responsibility to protect the environment. We should burst green crackers, as they are a more eco-friendly alternative to traditional fireworks. By choosing green crackers, we can significantly reduce air pollution and create a healthier environment for all. The Supreme Court's guidelines on the sale and use of green crackers are an admirable step in the right direction. Let us take an oath to follow these guidelines and promote sustainable celebrations. We can make a difference by spreading awareness, educating our friends, family and community about the benefits of green crackers. Collective efforts can reduce pollution and create a cleaner, greener environment. Let us join hands to make a positive impact. Sucha Sagar

To balance tradition with sustainability

A festival like Diwali should symbolise light, harmony and renewal, not smoke-filled skies and breathlessness. The introduction of green crackers is a scientific effort to balance tradition with sustainability. Yet, the real change lies in people's mindset. Limiting the use of even these reduced-emission fireworks and choosing eco-friendly celebrations can make a measurable difference. Our cultural joy should never come at the cost of clean air, because the right to celebrate should also include the right to breathe. Dr Meenakshi

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