As Diwali is celebrated on the new-moon (Amavasya) night, the darkest day of the month, it is the most significant day of the Diwali festival in north and west India. Lakshmi is worshiped on this day, with a special puja performed in the evening. Lights and fireworks have a significant role to play in this festival the first impression that flashes through our minds is of multicolored and impressive fireworks, sprinkling various sorts of bright colored lights in the night sky. But, it is no secret that firecrackers affect our bodies and environment.
Firecrackers cause extensive air pollution in a short amount of time, leaving metal particles, dangerous toxins, harmful chemicals and smoke in the air for hours and days. Some of the toxins never fully decompose or disintegrate, but rather hang around in the environment, poisoning all they come into contact with. Exposure to fine particles, like those found in smoke and haze is linked to negative health implications, such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, asthma attacks and even heart attacks. Not to mention the noise pollution cause by exploding firecrackers.
Most of the fireworks used for public displays contain chemicals called potassium perchlorate and cerium nitrate which are terrible for the environment and health. To reduce the hazardous impacts of fireworks, scientists are trying to invent more eco-friendly fireworks by looking for alternatives to two chemicals mentioned. It was found that possible chemicals in place of potassium perchlorate and barium nitrate could be strontium nitrate, potassium periodate or sodium periodate which are less poisonous.
Aside from eco-friendly fireworks, there are also many alternatives so you can still enjoy the fireworks in a more eco-friendly way this Diwali.
Here are some ideas you can try to replace firecrackers:
Balloon firecrackers
Blow colorful balloons and fill them with colorful paper flakes. When the kids as well as adults get a chance to burst these balloons, the fun will be no less than enjoying bursting of firecrackers. Bursting the balloons will create sound which will never be as loud as the sound of firecrackers.
Glow sticks
Glow sticks comes in bright, neon colors and they are very good alternative to firecrackers. They give the effect of sparklers when they are waved but the chances of burning or any other injury are not there. At night, they create a charming effect and add more fun when they are put into a pool.
Wish lanterns
Use wish lanterns made with colorful papers and let them fly in the air. The sight will be much more colorful than that of the one when fireworks are lit. Moreover such lanterns are 100% eco friendly (made of recycled paper) and harmless for the kids and adults.
Can you share some more ways and ideas in which you celebrate this festival???
