Green Crackers

10 Nov 2023 Green Crackers

This article covers “Daily Current Affairs” and the topic details “ Green Crackers”. This topic has relevance in the Environment Section of the UPSC CSE exam.

GS 3: Environment 

Why in the news?

The Supreme Court has specified that its directive, prohibiting the utilization of barium and other prohibited chemicals in firecrackers, is applicable nationwide and extends beyond the confines of the National Capital Region.

• Definition and Characteristics:Green crackers, as defined by the CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (CSIR NEERI), are characterized by a smaller shell size, absence of ash, and additives like dust suppressants. These modifications aim to reduce emissions, particularly particulate matter, contributing to environmental health.
• Barium-Free Composition:Distinguished by the absence of barium compounds, green crackers deviate from conventional counterparts known for their distinctive green color. Barium, a metal oxide in traditional firecrackers, is a known air pollutant and noise contributor.
• Emission Reduction Benefits:Burning green crackers results in water vapor emission, diminishing the release of dust. Compared to conventional firecrackers, green counterparts reduce particulate matter (PM) emissions by an impressive 30%.
• Noise Reduction Measures:Green firecrackers exhibit sound levels between 110 and 125 decibels, in stark contrast to the approximately 160 decibels produced by conventional firecrackers. This makes green crackers nearly 30% less noisy, contributing to noise pollution mitigation.
• Identification Criteria:Recognition of green crackers is facilitated by the distinct green logo of CSIR-NEERI and PESO, along with a Quick Response (QR) code.

Varieties of Green Crackers:

• SWAS (Safe Water Releaser):

• • • Releases water vapor to minimize dust emission.
    • 30% reduction in particulate matter.
    • Free of Sulphur and potassium nitrate.

• STAR (Safe Thermite Cracker):

• • • No potassium nitrate or Sulphur content.
    • Lower particulate matter emission.
    • Reduced sound intensity.

• SAFAL:

• • Minimal aluminum usage, increased magnesium content.
  • Lower noise production compared to traditional firecrackers.

Legal Framework and Supreme Court Directives:

• In 2021, the Supreme Court issued directions to prevent the use of banned chemicals in firecrackers before Diwali.
• The court clarified that the ban was specific to firecrackers containing barium salts.
• Green crackers received approval as per the 2018 directives.
• In 2023, the Supreme Court extended firecracker restrictions beyond Delhi-NCR to all states, emphasizing the need for nationwide measures to control air and noise pollution.

SOURCE:SC says cracker order applies to country, not just NCR: What types of fireworks are allowed, and where | Explained News – The Indian Express

Download Yojna daily current affairs eng med 10th November 2023

Q.1 Consider the following statements regarding green crackers:

1. Green crackers, defined by CSIR-NEERI, aim to reduce emissions by incorporating larger shell sizes and additives.
2. The distinctive green color of traditional firecrackers is attributed to the presence of barium compounds.
3. SWAS, a type of green cracker, releases Sulphur and potassium nitrate, contributing to a 30% reduction in particulate matter emissions.

How many of the above statement/s is/are correct? 

(a) Only one 

(b) Only two 

(c) All three 

(d) None

ANSWER: D

Q.2 Evaluate the role of green crackers in aligning with the court’s objectives and contributing to environmental sustainability. Additionally, analyze the challenges and opportunities associated with implementing and enforcing the Supreme Court’s directives on firecrackers.

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