Explain how are green crackers better than the conventional crackers.

Green Crackers are environmentally friendly fireworks that can help to reduce the air pollution caused by traditional firecrackers. These have been developed by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR).

Green crackers:

• They are expected to cause at least 30% less air pollution in comparison to the traditional firecrackers.
• They are made from alternative raw materials that have lesser impact on the environment.
• Regular crackers emit about 160 decibels of sound whereas green crackers sound is limited to 110-125 decibels.
• To differentiate green crackers from traditional ones, a green logo and Quick Response (QR) have been developed.
• Manufacturers need to sign a deal with the CSIR to make fireworks using the green cracker formulation.
• Green crackers are of three categories – SWAS, SAFAL and STAR.
• SWAS (safe water release) has a small water pocket/droplet which get released when burst, in the form of vapour, thereby suppressing the dust released.
• STAR (safe thermite cracker) does not comprise potassium nitrate and sulphur, emits reduced particulate matter and has reduced sound intensity.
• SAFAL (safe minimal aluminium) has minimum usage of aluminium. It ensures reduction in sound in comparison to traditional crackers.

Green crackers are surely a better alternative to traditional crackers but their cost needs to be reduced to promote them.