A Green Diwali: Reducing Air Pollution This Festive Season

Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, is a time of celebration and joy for people across India. However, the burning of firecrackers during the festival significantly contributes to air pollution, causing a range of health issues, especially for those with respiratory conditions such as asthma and bronchitis. This year, Delhi's air quality index plunged into the severe category, with levels of particulate matter reaching seven times the World Health Organization's safety limit. To reduce air pollution during Diwali, people can take several steps, including avoiding firecrackers, using eco-friendly diyas, and opting for environmentally friendly alternatives to firecrackers. Additionally, vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly should wear protective masks, and everyone is advised to stay indoors during peak firecracker hours to reduce the risk of inhaling harmful particles.

Avoid firecrackers and opt for green alternatives

Diwali is a time to celebrate with friends and family, but the environment often takes a toll. Firecrackers, crop burning, vehicle emissions, and weather patterns are some reasons why air pollution increases during this time. Firecrackers, in particular, are harmful to humans, animals, and birds due to the poisonous smoke and noise they emit.

To reduce air pollution during Diwali, it is important to avoid firecrackers and opt for green alternatives. Here are some eco-friendly options to choose from:

Sky Lanterns

Sky lanterns are a safe and eco-friendly alternative to firecrackers. They illuminate the sky without polluting the air or causing deafening noises. When buying sky lanterns, ensure that you only purchase those made of biodegradable materials.

Seed Crackers

Seed crackers are an innovative way to celebrate a green Diwali. These crackers resemble traditional firecrackers, but they do not contain explosives. Instead, they hold seasonal flower or vegetable seeds. To use them, you open the crackers, plant the seeds, and nurture them to grow into flourishing plants.

Green Crackers

Green crackers are eco-friendly alternatives to traditional firecrackers. They are made with dust suppressants and iron oxides, which help reduce toxic emissions. Green crackers release water vapors instead of pollutants and produce less noise. When purchasing green crackers, be cautious of misleading information. Authentic green crackers will feature a green logo from organizations like CSIR-NEERI and PESO, as well as a QR code.

Confetti Cannons

Confetti cannons can provide a similar thrill to firecrackers without the negative impact on the environment. They are small cylinders of nitrogen filled with confetti. When the gas is released, the confetti pops into the air, creating a sound similar to that of firecrackers.

Paper Poppers

Paper poppers are easy to make and produce a similar sound to firecrackers. They can be crafted with just a few folds of paper.

Glow Sticks

Glow sticks are a bright and colourful alternative to sparklers. They create a charming effect, especially at night, and can be safely enjoyed by both children and adults without the risk of burns or other injuries.

By choosing these green alternatives, you can still enjoy the festivities of Diwali while being mindful of the environment and the health of those around you.

Use eco-friendly diyas

Terracotta, clay, or earthen diyas are a great way to illuminate your home during Diwali without contributing to excessive air pollution. These traditional diyas are biodegradable and cost-effective, and their use supports local artisans.

To further reduce indoor air pollution, opt for diyas that use natural, eco-friendly, or plant-based fuels. Avoid paraffin candles, as these can cause indoor air pollution. Instead, choose candles made from natural ingredients such as coconut husks, orange peels, or wheat dough.

If you want to add extra fragrance to your home, consider using diyas infused with natural essential oils. You can also create your own scented diyas by adding a few drops of essential oil to the fuel.

Another way to reduce pollution is to make your own diyas using natural ingredients. For example, you can make diyas out of rice paste, or use natural colours like turmeric, coffee powder, and rice flour to decorate your diyas. This can be a fun activity to do with your family and friends, and it ensures that your diyas are free from harmful chemicals.

Using diyas is a wonderful way to celebrate the Festival of Lights and create a festive atmosphere. By choosing eco-friendly options, you can reduce air pollution, support local artisans, and enjoy a healthier and more sustainable Diwali celebration.

Wear protective masks

Diwali is a time of celebration, but the environment often takes a toll due to firecrackers, crop burning, exhaust emissions, and weather patterns. The air quality deteriorates, and this can have a negative effect on health and well-being. One way to protect yourself and your loved ones during Diwali is to wear protective masks. Here's why this is important and how to do it effectively:

Importance of Wearing Protective Masks

• Filtering Particulate Matter: Masks with high filtration efficiency, such as N95 or KN95 masks, can effectively trap fine particulate matter (PM2.5). These masks can reduce your exposure to harmful particles that can penetrate deep into your lungs and bloodstream.
• Reducing Allergen Exposure: Masks can filter out common allergens like pollen and dust, preventing allergic reactions such as sneezing, itching, or respiratory distress.
• Blocking Harmful Chemicals and Gases: Specialised masks with activated carbon layers can reduce your exposure to harmful gases like nitrogen dioxide and sulphur dioxide, commonly emitted by vehicles and industrial sources.
• Protecting the Respiratory Tract: Masks create a physical barrier, preventing direct exposure to airborne toxins. This reduces the risk of developing or exacerbating conditions like bronchitis, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
• Preventing Lung Inflammation: By minimising the inhalation of pollutants, masks help reduce inflammation in the lungs, thereby lowering the risk of long-term respiratory damage.
• Lowering Cardiovascular Risks: Airborne particles can enter the bloodstream and cause cardiovascular issues. Masks, especially N95 or KN95 variants, can reduce this risk by filtering out these particles.
• Decreasing Risk of Respiratory Infections: Masks limit your exposure to bacteria and viruses present in polluted air, lowering the chances of contracting respiratory infections.

How to Wear Masks Effectively:

• Select the Right Mask: Opt for masks with high filtration efficiency, such as N95 or KN95 masks, which are designed to filter out fine particulate matter. Ordinary surgical masks, cloth masks, and scarves are not effective in blocking PM2.5 particles.
• Ensure a Snug Fit: A proper fit is crucial. Choose a mask that contours to your face, fitting snugly over your nose and mouth. Avoid gaps on the sides of your cheeks and the bridge of your nose, as particles can pass through these openings.
• Consider Exhaust Valves: Some masks feature exhaust valves, which make breathing easier, especially for individuals with pre-existing lung problems.
• Protect Children and the Elderly: Vulnerable individuals, such as children, the elderly, or those with respiratory conditions, must wear face masks when outdoors or in areas where firecrackers are burnt.
• Combine with Other Measures: While masks offer significant protection, they should be combined with other measures, such as using air purifiers indoors and limiting outdoor activities during peak pollution times.

Stay indoors and keep windows closed

Staying indoors with the windows closed is a crucial step in reducing exposure to harmful air pollution during Diwali. By remaining inside, you can limit your direct inhalation of toxic smoke and fumes from firecrackers, which are a significant contributor to the surge in air pollution during the festival.

This is especially important for individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, such as asthma, bronchitis, and COPD. By staying indoors, they can minimise their risk of experiencing respiratory issues and breathing troubles caused by the poor air quality. It is also beneficial for vulnerable groups, such as children and the elderly, to follow this practice to protect their health.

During Diwali, when firecrackers are burned, the air becomes filled with harmful particulate matter, such as PM2.5, which are tiny particles that can enter the bloodstream and cause serious health issues, including heart disease, cancer, and respiratory problems. By staying indoors with the windows closed, you create a physical barrier between yourself and these pollutants, reducing your exposure.

Additionally, staying indoors can help prevent the indoor air quality from deteriorating. Indoor air pollution can be more dangerous than outdoor pollution, and the use of firecrackers, candles, and diyas can contribute to it. By keeping the windows closed, you can prevent the outdoor pollutants from entering your home and maintain a safer indoor environment.

Use air purifiers

Diwali is a time of celebration, but the environment often takes a toll during the festival of lights. The burning of firecrackers, crop burning, exhaust emissions from vehicles, and weather patterns are some of the reasons why air pollution spikes during Diwali. To combat this, the use of air purifiers is a recommended strategy to maintain good indoor air quality and safeguard your health.

Air purifiers are an effective way to reduce indoor air pollution, which can be more dangerous than outdoor pollution. Indoor air pollutants, such as asbestos, lead, and tobacco smoke, can have severe health impacts, including lung cancer, respiratory irritation, and heart disease. By using a HEPA air purifier, you can reduce your exposure to these harmful pollutants and create a safer environment for yourself and your loved ones.

During Diwali, outdoor air pollution also infiltrates indoor spaces, affecting the indoor air quality negatively. This can be particularly harmful to people with asthma and breathing problems. Air purifiers can help mitigate this issue by trapping indoor air pollutants such as PM2.5, carcinogen agents, and dust particles. The 4-stage purification process not only removes these pollutants but also ensures that the indoor air is safe to breathe, providing reassurance that your loved ones are breathing cleaner air even when outdoor air quality is poor.

To maximise the benefits of air purifiers, it is important to follow certain guidelines. Firstly, ensure that the air purifier is appropriately sized for the volume of the room. Keep the windows and doors closed to maintain the efficacy of the purifier. Run the purifier continuously, directing the airflow towards the areas where you sit or sleep. Regular maintenance is crucial, including periodic filter replacements, to prevent the growth of fungi and the accumulation of trapped pollutants.

In summary, using air purifiers during Diwali is a proactive step towards reducing indoor air pollution and mitigating the negative health impacts of outdoor air pollution. By following the recommended guidelines, you can breathe easier knowing that your indoor air quality is improved and your health is protected during the festive season.

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