As Diwali approaches, the spotlight is once again on green crackers, which are India’s innovative solution to festive pollution. Developed by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), green crackers are designed to reduce the harmful environmental and health effects traditionally associated with firecrackers.
What sets green crackers apart?
Green crackers are not just a branding exercise—they represent a scientific breakthrough in cleaner celebrations. Unlike conventional firecrackers, these:
- Cut pollution by 30–80%, thanks to the absence of toxic chemicals like barium nitrate, arsenic, mercury, and lithium.
- Release water vapour and dust suppressants during combustion, helping reduce particulate matter in the air.
- Limit noise pollution to 120 decibels, compared to the 160 dB of traditional crackers.
Identification and safety
To ensure authenticity, green crackers carry a green logo and QR code. Only certified products are permitted for sale, and joined firecrackers (series crackers) remain banned. Online sales are also prohibited to prevent unauthorised distribution.
CSIR has developed three main variants:
- SWAS (Safe Water Release): Emits water vapour to suppress dust.
- STAR (Safe Thermite Cracker): Produces reduced sound and emissions.
- SAFE (Safe Minimal Aluminium): Limits the use of aluminium and other metals.
Green crackers are part of a broader effort to balance cultural traditions with environmental responsibility. With cities like Delhi facing severe air quality challenges, these eco-friendly alternatives offer a way to celebrate without compromising public health.
As the Supreme Court allows limited use of green crackers this Diwali, awareness and compliance will be key to ensuring a cleaner, safer festival season.
The Supreme Court’s relaxation on sale of crackers and guidelines
In a significant move ahead of Diwali, the Supreme Court of India has temporarily relaxed its longstanding ban on firecrackers in the Delhi-NCR region, permitting the use of government-approved green crackers on a trial basis. The decision aims to strike a balance between environmental concerns and the livelihoods of firecracker manufacturers and sellers.
Key highlights of the SC guidelines
- Trial period: The relaxation is effective from October 14 to 25, during which the impact of green crackers will be closely monitored. A report will be submitted post-trial to determine future policy directions.
- Green crackers only: Only crackers certified as ‘green’, those that reduce pollution by 30–80%, are allowed. These do not contain harmful chemicals like barium, arsenic, lithium, or mercury.
- Identification: Approved crackers will carry a green logo and QR code for verification.
- Sale restrictions:
- Permitted only from October 18 to 20
- Limited to designated locations
- Supervised by district collectors and police
- Usage restrictions:
- Allowed only on Diwali and the day before
- Permitted during 6–7 am and 8–10 pm
- Prohibited items: Crackers with banned substances, joint firecrackers and E-commerce sales of firecrackers.
Enforcement measures
- Monitoring teams: Police and pollution control board officials will patrol sale points and verify authenticity.
- Penalties: Violations may lead to license cancellation and other legal consequences.
- Public advisory: Citizens are urged to comply with the guidelines to ensure a safe and eco-friendly celebration.
This move by the Supreme Court reflects a nuanced approach to festive traditions, public health, and environmental sustainability. As the trial unfolds, all eyes will be on the effectiveness of green crackers and the public’s adherence to the new norms.