AP Pollution Control Board (APPCB) Chairman Dr P Krishnaiah appealed to people in Andhra Pradesh to celebrate Deepawali with certified ‘green crackers’ that reduce air and noise pollution. He also advised buyers to check for the official green logo and QR code before purchase.
In a press release, the APPCB has urged people to avoid traditional firecrackers and instead celebrate Deepawali using eco-friendly green crackers, appealing to the manufacturers and sellers to support a cleaner and safer Deepawali.
Why the green crackers?
Dr Krishnaiah said that regular firecrackers release fine particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), sulphur dioxide, and nitrogen oxides. “These pollutants are invisible to the eye but cause breathing problems, asthma, and long-term lung issues,” he said.
Some banned firecrackers also contain dangerous metals like barium, lithium, and arsenic, which produce toxic emissions.
Green crackers are low-emission firecrackers developed by CSIR (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research) and NEERI (National Environmental Engineering Research Institute). They release 30–40% fewer pollutants, less smoke and noise, and contain minimal harmful chemicals. These are safe for children and senior citizens and are also PESO-certified (Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation).
How to identify genuine green crackers?
Dr Krishnaiah advised the public to buy only certified products and verify them before purchase. Genuine green crackers must include a green fireworks logo, PESO license number and a QR code (scan to verify NEERI approval).
Furthermore, the APPCB has issued official instructions to all District Collectors, Superintendents of Police and local enforcement wings to ensure the sale and usage of green crackers only. “Let this Diwali be bright with light, not polluted with smoke. Choose green crackers. Protect your family, protect your planet,” the APPCB chief added.
