Happy Diwali 2023: What Are The Harmful Effects Of Fire Crackers On Stray Animals? Are Green Crackers Really Beneficial? See What Experts Say

It is possible to enjoy Diwali with the same fervour and happiness while paying more attention to how our actions affect the environment. 

Harmful effects of fire crackers

Source : Getty

As an advocate for change and environmentalist, it's critical to raise people's awareness of the negative effects traditional firecrackers have on the environment and to encourage the adoption of greener alternatives. It is possible to enjoy Diwali with the same fervour and happiness while paying more attention to how our actions affect the environment. 

But, before that let' know the harmful effects of fire crackers:

Harmful Effects Of Fire Crackers:

1. On Stray Animals:

Dr Ridhima Mahadeva, who is a veterinary doctor at Zigly, Panchkula said, "This season also brings challenges for other beings in our vicinity, namely the stray animals. The survival gift of these stray animals is their sense of hearing and smelling, on which the impact is greatest and sometimes fatal."

"Pollution can be harmful in all forms, whether it is air or noise, if not managed or controlled timely. During the festivities, the entire country is blanketed in air and noise pollution so much so that even after a few days the devastating effects can be seen. The pollution of the crackers release toxic gases into the atmosphere like CO2, Sulphur dioxide, potassium and nitrogen, which causes respiratory distress asthma, congestion in lungs and sometimes they choke," she continued to say.

"The trauma that these voiceless, innocent beings face due to the noise is indescribable as they are extremely sensitive to the loud noise. When a human complains about any of these stray animals biting or showing aggressive behavior, this is one of the major reasons for it," she added.

 

In addition to that, Dr Leena Dalal, who is a Co-CEO and Co-CMO at MaxPetZ said, "When it comes to pets, we can shelter them from all of this to some extent but for strays, no such privilege exists. And it's our responsibility as a society to show compassion towards these animals. A few steps we can all take is to opt for quieter, more eco friendly crackers, have dedicated spaces and time to burst cracker and make sure to check the area for stray animals before you start. Another thing you can do is set up temporary shelters for strays to help shield them from all the noise and chaos. Let’s urge everyone to consider the impact of their celebrations on stray animals and take measures to reduce the harm. Let's promote a more humane and peaceful Diwali, one that is inclusive of all creatures."

2. On Pregnant Women:

The effects of firecrackers, particularly the sound and smoke, can have different impacts on pregnant women, depending on their stage of pregnancy.
 
Dr Sunipa Chatterjee who is a Consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist at Techno India Dama Hospital said, "During the early stages of pregnancy, exposure to loud sounds, such as those produced by firecrackers, can potentially lead to stress and anxiety for the expecting mother. Prolonged exposure to high noise levels may even affect the developing fetus, as it is more susceptible to external stimuli. Loud noises can cause elevated levels of stress hormones in the mother's body, which may indirectly affect the growing fetus."
 
"Inhaling the smoke produced by firecrackers can also be harmful, as it may contain various toxic chemicals and particulate matter. These pollutants can potentially enter the bloodstream and have adverse effects on both the mother and the developing baby, impacting respiratory health and overall well-being," she added.
 
Talking about advanced stages of pregnancy, she said, "As pregnancy progresses, the fetus becomes more insulated from external noise, but it can still hear and react to sounds, including firecrackers. Sudden loud noises can startle the baby, causing increased heart rate or fetal movements. While this is generally not harmful, it can be uncomfortable for the mother."
 
"In the advanced stages of pregnancy, the physiological changes that have occurred may make the mother more sensitive to air pollution. Exposure to smoke from firecrackers may exacerbate respiratory issues or discomfort. Inhaling pollutants can also impact the oxygen supply to the fetus, potentially affecting its development," she added.

3. On The Environment:

Dr. Malini Saba, who is a businesswoman, environmentalist, psychologist, philanthropist, fitness enthusiast, author of food books, single working mother, human rights activist, global advocate for women and girls, and founder & Chairman of the Anannke Foundation said that there are various detrimental effects that burning crackers during Diwali has on the environment. The most well-known ones consist of:

• Air Pollution: Toxic vapours are released when firecrackers, which include chemicals and heavy metals including sulphur, lead, and copper, catch fire. These contaminants can cause the amount of air pollution to rise significantly, which can aggravate pre-existing health conditions and cause respiratory problems.
• Noise pollution: Both people and animals may find the loud, continuous noise made by firecrackers to be very disturbing. In addition to upsetting wildlife and influencing their normal behaviours and habitat, it can cause anxiety, stress, and hearing impairment in humans.
• Waste Generation: Following the celebrations, burned firework leftovers, including paper, plastic, and metal components, contribute to litter and solid waste pollution. The ecosystem is further harmed by the insufficiency of the cleanup procedures.
• Depletion of Resources: The manufacturing process of firecrackers has a large carbon footprint and uses a lot of energy and natural resources, such as minerals. The burden on planetary resources is increased by this.
• Health Hazards: Children, the elderly, and people with pre-existing respiratory disorders can all be more vulnerable to the smoke and contaminants from fireworks. In addition, the contaminants may cause inflammation of the eyes and other health issues.

What Are Green Crackers?

Green Crackers are an eco-friendly alternative to traditional firecrackers that have several benefits during Diwali and other celebrations, making them a sustainable choice without compromising the enjoyment of the festival.

How Much Benefit Do Green Crackers Provide?

Dr. Malini Saba said, "Due to insufficient knowledge and the traditional cultural significance of fireworks during Diwali, traditional firecrackers have been lit during the festival for ages without any consideration for the environmental consequences. Traditions are frequently firmly embedded in civilizations and cultures, and it takes time for new information to spread and influence behaviour."

"Green crackers are a more environmentally friendly firecracker substitute and a relatively recent development. These crackers are made with a number of eco-friendly features in mind, such as lowered noise levels and emissions. It's crucial to remember that even green crackers have some environmental downsides and that their benefits are relative," she added.

Benefits of Green Crackers during Diwali

Dr. P Venkata Krishnan, who is a Sr. Consultant, of Internal Medicine, at Artemis Hospital, Gurugram suggested the following benefits of green crackers:

Environmental Benefits: Green Crackers reduce the harmful impact of fireworks on the environment because of the several eco-friendly features that they have.

• Reduced Air Pollution: Unlike traditional firecrackers that release large quantities of toxic chemicals and particulate matter into the air resulting in poor air quality, green crackers emit fewer harmful pollutants, reducing the air pollution.

• Lower Noise Pollution: Green Crackers produce less noise, making them a better choice for those who may be sensitive to loud sounds. 

• Decreased Chemical Residue: Unlike traditional firecrackers that leave behind chemical residues and unburnt particles, contaminating the soil and water, green crackers produce fewer residues. 

Health Benefits: The reduced emissions and noise from Green Crackers result in health benefits:

• Improved Air Quality: Lower emissions from Green Crackers result in better air quality, reducing the risk of respiratory issues, especially among children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory problems.

• Reduced Noise-Related Stress: Lower noise levels from green crackers result in a more peaceful and stress-free celebration. 

Safety Benefits: Green Crackers are a safer option because of the following:

• Lower Fire Hazards: Traditional firecrackers can cause accidental fires. Green Crackers have enhanced safety measures that reduce the risk of fire accidents.
• Decreased Accidental Injuries: The reduced noise and emissions from Green Crackers decrease the likelihood of accidental injuries that can occur because of mishandling or malfunctioning of fireworks.

Legal Compliance:

• Using Green Crackers ensures compliance with environmental regulations and guidelines, thus reducing the risk of legal issues or fines associated with the use of banned or harmful fireworks.

Community Harmony: 

• Green Crackers promote community harmony by reducing noise pollution, which can be a source of tension among neighbours during Diwali. 
• Green Crackers provide a plethora of benefits that make them a better and sustainable choice for celebrating Diwali. By embracing Green Crackers, people can enjoy Diwali simultaneously respecting the well-being of nature.