Green crackers are an eco-friendlier alternative to traditional firecrackers, developed to reduce pollution and health hazards during celebrations like Diwali.

Chemicals Used in Green Crackers

Green crackers eliminate or sharply reduce aluminium, barium, potassium nitrate, and carbon, which are commonly found in conventional crackers.​ Instead of barium nitrate, which is harmful and commonly used for green coloration, green crackers deploy safer alternatives or significantly lower amounts of barium compounds.​

Nitrogen-based compounds, eco-safe oxidizers, and additives like zeolite and iron oxide are used to further reduce emissions and particulate matter.​

Water-releasing agents and dust suppressants are incorporated to reduce air pollution, along with binders such as dextrin made from starch.​

• Potassium Nitrate (KNO₃): Used as an oxidizer, but in reduced quantities compared to traditional crackers.
• Activated Carbon: Helps absorb pollutants and reduce emissions.
• Zeolite: A microporous mineral that traps toxic gases like sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides.
• Magnesium and Aluminum: Used in minimal amounts to produce bright sparks without excessive smoke.
• Binders and Stabilizers: Eco-friendly compounds that help maintain the shape and stability of the cracker without releasing harmful fumes.
• Safe Thermite Compositions: Used in STAR (Safe Thermite Cracker) variants to produce heat and light with lower emissions.

These crackers avoid banned substances like barium nitrate, which is a major pollutant in conventional fireworks.

Merits of Green Crackers

• Lower Emissions: They emit 30–40% less particulate matter compared to conventional firecrackers.
• Reduced Noise Pollution: Designed to produce less noise, typically below 125 decibels, which is safer for humans and animals.
• Less Harmful Chemicals: They avoid the use of banned substances like barium and reduce the release of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides.
• Government Approved: Certified by agencies like CSIR-NEERI and PESO, ensuring safety and compliance with environmental standards.
• Types Available: Includes varieties like SWAS (Safe Water Releaser), SAFAL (Safe Minimal Aluminum), and STAR (Safe Thermite Cracker), each tailored to minimize specific pollutants.

SWAS, SAFAL, STAR

1. SWAS – Safe Water Releaser

• • Function: Releases water vapor during combustion to suppress dust and dilute gaseous emissions.
  • Pollution Control: Reduces particulate matter and gaseous pollutants like SO₂ and NOx.
  • Noise Level: Maintained below 125 decibels.
  • Chemical Composition: Avoids harmful chemicals like barium nitrate.

2. SAFAL – Safe Minimal Aluminium

• • Function: Uses minimal aluminium in the composition, reducing the release of metal oxides.
  • Pollution Control: Controls emissions of particulate matter and heavy metals.
  • Noise Level: Also kept below 125 decibels.
  • Chemical Composition: Uses safer oxidizers and binders.

3. STAR – Safe Thermite Cracker

• • Function: Uses thermite-based compositions to produce sound and light with lower emissions.
  • Pollution Control: Designed to minimize release of toxic gases and particulate matter.
  • Noise Level: Within permissible limits.
  • Chemical Composition: Thermite reactions are more controlled and cleaner than traditional firework reactions.

• All three brands of green crackers can currently only be produced by licensed manufacturers, approved by the CSIR. Additionally, the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) is tasked with certifying that the crackers are made without arsenic, mercury, and barium, and are not loud beyond a certain threshold.
• Furthermore, green crackers can be differentiated from conventional crackers in retail stores by a green logo printed on their boxes, along with a Quick Response (QR) coding system.

Demerits of Green Crackers

• Still Polluting: Despite reduced emissions, they still release ultrafine particles that can affect respiratory health, especially in polluted cities.
• Limited Availability: Not as widely available as traditional crackers, and often more expensive due to specialized manufacturing.
• Short-Term Impact: Their benefits are marginal if used in large volumes or in areas with already high pollution levels.
• Public Awareness: Many people are unaware of how to identify genuine green crackers, leading to misuse or purchase of mislabeled products.

Green crackers are thus a step forward but not a complete solution. They help reduce the environmental impact of festivities, but responsible use and broader pollution control measures are still essential.  

E-crackers/Electronic crackers

E-crackers, or electronic crackers, are a modern, eco-friendly alternative to traditional firecrackers. Instead of relying on chemical combustion, they use electronic components to simulate the sound and light effects of fireworks—without the harmful emissions.

• Operate using LED lights, speakers, and remote controls.
• Often shaped like traditional firecrackers (e.g., ladi, chakri) but contain no explosive materials.

Merits of E-Crackers

• Zero pollution: No smoke, toxic gases, or particulate matter.
• Safe for all ages: No risk of burns or injuries.
• Reusable: Can be used multiple times, making them cost-effective in the long run.
• Pet and environment friendly: No loud bangs or harmful residues.

Demerits of E-Crackers

• Lack of authenticity: May not fully replicate the thrill of traditional fireworks.
• Initial cost: Higher upfront cost compared to regular crackers.
• Limited availability: Not yet widely adopted or available in all regions.

Green crackers and e-crackers represent a significant shift toward eco-conscious celebrations. While green crackers reduce harmful emissions by using safer chemicals and controlled combustion, e-crackers go a step further by eliminating pollution altogether through electronic simulation.

• Green Crackers offer a compromise between tradition and sustainability, with reduced noise and chemical pollutants. However, they still contribute to air quality concerns if used excessively.
• E-Crackers are the cleanest option, ideal for urban areas and sensitive groups, though they may lack the sensory thrill of traditional fireworks.

Every step toward cleaner celebration helps protect our health, climate, and future.