Bronte Wells
Burning crackers on occasions like Diwali, Christmas, and weddings is a tradition in many cultures. However, this practice has severe environmental and health consequences due to the release of toxic gases and chemical compounds. The pollution caused by crackers is multifaceted, including air pollution, noise pollution, and even soil and water contamination. This paragraph will discuss how bursting crackers contribute to air pollution and the associated health risks.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Air pollution | Fine particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, heavy metals, toxic gases, and chemical compounds |
| Global warming | Increase in heat, carbon dioxide, and toxic gases in the atmosphere, leading to a rise in temperature |
| Noise pollution | Loud noise that can cause stress, anxiety, hearing loss, and disturb wildlife |
| Garbage | Residual waste from crackers that can affect the environment if not properly disposed of |
| Fire accidents | Small sparks from crackers can cause significant damage and injuries if not handled properly |
| Health issues | Respiratory and cardiac problems, aggravation of existing conditions like asthma and bronchitis, and potential harm to pregnant women and the elderly |
| Environmental degradation | Reduction in biodiversity and overall environmental health |
What You'll Learn
Firecrackers release toxic gases and chemicals
Fireworks and firecrackers are a major source of toxic gases and chemicals that contribute to air pollution. The combustion of firecrackers releases harmful pollutants into the atmosphere, including particulate matter, sulphur dioxide, and nitric oxide. These emissions can have detrimental effects on both human health and the environment.
Particulate matter, or PM, refers to a mixture of minuscule solid and liquid substances suspended in the air. This type of pollution is considered one of the most hazardous air pollutants due to its ability to infiltrate people's lungs and heart, causing respiratory issues and other health problems. During celebrations with extensive firework usage, such as Diwali, the levels of PM in the air can increase significantly compared to normal days.
Sulphur dioxide, another byproduct of firecrackers, is a significant contributor to air pollution. The burning of sulphur powder in fireworks leads to the production of sulphur dioxide, which, in combination with PM, results in smog. Smog is highly harmful to human health, causing eye and skin irritation, respiratory tract corrosion, and long-term respiratory issues such as asthma. Additionally, sulphur dioxide contributes to acid rain, which has detrimental effects on water sources, vegetation, and infrastructure.
Firecrackers also emit toxic elements and metals, such as copper, cadmium, sulphur, aluminium, barium, and radioactive components. These substances can remain suspended in the atmosphere for extended periods, causing serious health issues. Exposure to aluminium, for example, can lead to dermatitis, bioaccumulation, and the deposition of harmful substances in organisms. The presence of radioactive elements in firecrackers also increases the risk of cancer for those exposed to the emissions.
Furthermore, firecrackers release carbon monoxide, a toxic gas that hinders the ability of living organisms to transport oxygen throughout their bodies. Carbon monoxide, along with carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxide, are also produced during firework displays, contributing to climate change and global warming. The increased levels of these gases in the atmosphere can lead to a rise in Earth's temperature and further deteriorate air quality.
Steam Engines: Pollution and the Environment
You may want to see also
They cause a rapid increase in atmospheric pollutants
The burning of firecrackers has been shown to cause a rapid increase in atmospheric pollutants, specifically particulate matter (PM) such as PM2.5 and PM10. These fine particles can remain suspended in the air for a long time and have significant adverse health effects.
Studies have found that the burning of firecrackers, especially during festivals like Diwali, leads to a substantial increase in PM levels. For example, in Delhi, India, the concentration of PM2.5 can increase by nearly 25% during Diwali due to firecrackers. The problem is exacerbated by the coincidence of the festival with the agricultural stubble burning season and foggy weather, which allows pollutants to mix with water vapour and affect visibility.
Different types of firecrackers produce varying levels of air pollutants. Snake tablets have been found to produce the highest peak level of PM2.5, followed by garlands of 1000 sounding crackers, and then other types such as sparklers, ground spinners, and flower pots. The release of these pollutants contributes to the formation of harmful ground-level ozone, which can cause or worsen respiratory issues such as lung diseases, asthma, bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
The increase in atmospheric pollutants from firecrackers can lead to excess premature deaths and emergency hospital admissions, particularly among those with pre-existing respiratory and cardiovascular conditions, children, and the elderly. It is advised that those with lung issues take precautions during festival seasons, such as using air purifiers, wearing masks, and avoiding strenuous activities when fireworks are being set off.
Rayon's Pollution Problem: What's the Environmental Impact?
You may want to see also
These pollutants cause respiratory and cardiac issues
Fireworks and crackers contribute to air pollution by releasing toxic gases and chemical compounds into the atmosphere. These include particulate matter, sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and various heavy metals. The release of these pollutants causes a rapid increase in PM2.5 and PM10 levels, which are hazardous to human health.
These fine particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, causing severe respiratory and cardiac issues. Inhaling these pollutants can lead to respiratory problems, aggravate existing conditions like asthma and bronchitis, and cause cardiovascular diseases. The elderly, children, and those with pre-existing health conditions are especially vulnerable to these toxic fumes.
During festivals like Diwali, the burning of firecrackers significantly increases PM2.5 levels, leading to a substantial health hazard. The combination of firecrackers, agricultural burning, and vehicle emissions during this time creates a toxic cocktail of air pollutants, causing critical health issues. The effects of this pollution are not immediate and can occur in waves in the days following the festival as leftover crackers are burned.
The noise pollution caused by firecrackers can also have serious health implications. The loud noises can cause stress and anxiety in both humans and animals, disturb wildlife, and lead to hearing loss. Additionally, the choking sounds can directly affect the elderly, potentially triggering heart attacks.
While firecrackers are not the sole cause of air pollution, they significantly contribute to the problem. The tradition of burning crackers during celebrations adds to the existing pollution from vehicles, construction, and burning crops, exacerbating the health risks for vulnerable individuals.
Human Flatulence: Air Pollutant or Natural Process?
You may want to see also
Firecrackers also cause noise pollution
Firecrackers are used in many countries to celebrate various festivals and occasions. In India, firecrackers are extensively used during Diwali, the festival of lights, which is one of the most celebrated festivals in the country. During this festival, almost all households in India burn firecrackers every day for a period of 3 days.
The Central Pollution Control Board of India and the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change have recommended the prohibition of the manufacture, sale, or use of firecrackers breaching the noise limits of 125 dB(AI) or 145 dB(C)pk tested at 4 m from the point of bursting. Similarly, for individual firecrackers comprising a series of joined firecrackers, the above limit should be reduced by 5 log 10 (N) dB, where N is the number of crackers joined together. The Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules 2000 stipulate that firecrackers cannot be burst in 'silence zones' designated by state governments and anywhere after 10 p.m. From 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. (daytime) and in industrial areas, firecracker noise cannot exceed 75 dB(A) Leq. The thresholds in commercial and residential areas are 65 dB(A) Leq and 55 dB(A) Leq, respectively.
The effects of severe noise pollution are not restricted to humans but also cause trauma to animals and birds.
Injection Molding's Environmental Impact: Pollution and Solutions
You may want to see also
They contribute to global warming
Fireworks and crackers are a source of air pollution and contribute to global warming. The bursting of crackers increases heat, carbon dioxide, and toxic gases in the atmosphere, causing a rise in Earth's temperature and leading to global warming. Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a greenhouse gas that traps the sun's heat and contributes to climate change. Crackers also release other greenhouse gases, such as nitrous oxide, which remains in the atmosphere for an extended period. The combination of these gases and the heat generated by crackers intensifies the greenhouse effect, leading to a warmer planet.
The impact of crackers on global warming is significant, especially when considering the number of crackers burst during celebrations and festivals. The release of toxic gases and chemical compounds from crackers can have long-lasting effects on the environment. For example, nitrous oxide can persist in the atmosphere if there is a lack of heavy rain or strong winds to disperse it. This prolonged presence further contributes to global warming.
While some argue that the pollution caused by crackers is negligible compared to other sources, such as vehicle emissions, industrial activities, and crop burning, it is important to recognize that crackers still play a role in worsening air quality. The Supreme Court of India acknowledged that while crackers are not the sole reason for deteriorating air quality, they significantly contribute to air pollution.
The pollution caused by crackers can have severe health consequences, including respiratory issues, heart problems, and increased risk of cancer due to exposure to radioactive and poisonous elements. Additionally, the noise pollution from crackers can affect both humans and animals, causing trauma and, in some cases, leading to heart attacks in elderly individuals.
To mitigate the impact of crackers on global warming, it is essential to regulate their use and explore alternative celebration methods. Restrictions on the sale and manufacture of crackers, as well as public education on the environmental and health risks, can help reduce their contribution to air pollution and global warming. By taking collective action and adopting more sustainable practices, we can work towards minimizing the adverse effects of crackers on our planet.
Cow Dung: Pollution or Fertilizer?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Yes, firecrackers do cause air pollution. The chemicals and compounds in firecrackers release toxic gases and particulate matter into the air when burned, contributing to air pollution and causing severe health issues.
Bursting crackers increases the concentration of atmospheric pollutants, particularly PM10 and PM2.5, which are fine particulate matter that can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream. This leads to a rapid increase in air pollution and critical health issues, especially for children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions.
The air pollution caused by bursting crackers can lead to respiratory problems, cardiovascular diseases, and can aggravate existing health conditions such as asthma and bronchitis. It can also cause stress, anxiety, and hearing loss in humans, and disturb wildlife.
The contribution of firecrackers to overall pollution levels is debated. Some argue that firecrackers contribute less than 1% to overall PM levels, with vehicles, dust from construction, and burning crops being larger contributors. However, studies have shown that bursting crackers can increase PM 2.5 levels by a substantial amount, and the cumulative effect of these pollutants harms ecosystems, reduces biodiversity, and impacts overall environmental health.
Instead of bursting crackers, which are not a religious practice, people can celebrate eco-friendly festivals using earthen lamps or participating in other traditional activities that do not involve firecrackers.
