Diwali 2023: How to Manage Air Pollution and Celebrate Eco-Friendly Deepavali

Diwali is a time of great excitement and enthusiasm as people celebrate by worshipping Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi, lighting diyas, and sharing sweets. For many, especially children, it is also a time for fireworks. Markets are full of firecrackers like rockets, sparklers, chakras, twinkling stars, smoke balls, and poppers. However, due to the increasing air pollution levels across the country, state governments have been encouraging citizens to limit their use of firecrackers and consider switching to eco-friendly or “green” crackers to reduce the impact on the environment.

Bursting firecrackers not only contribute to elevated air pollution but also give rise to health concerns, particularly impacting lung health. With the air quality in various regions consistently deteriorating during the Diwali festivities, several states have taken measures to prohibit the use of firecrackers to mitigate the detrimental effects.

In addition to these measures, it is also the duty of the citizens to acknowledge and address the problem of air pollution and actively work towards its reduction during the Diwali celebrations.

As we gear up to celebrate Diwali today on Sunday, November 12, here are some tips to reduce air pollution:

Diwali 2023: How To Reduce Air Pollution

1. Limit Firecracker UseIt is advisable to avoid bursting a large number of firecrackers during Diwali celebrations, as they are a major source of pollution. Firecrackers release harmful toxins that can make the air unbreathable and lead to lung-related problems.
2. Choose Green CrackersConsider purchasing eco-friendly or “green” crackers available in the market. These crackers are designed to reduce particulate matter and the release of harmful gases into the air by 30 to 40 per cent, thus helping to mitigate air pollution.
3. Use Eco-Friendly DiyasOpt for eco-friendly diyas and terracotta lamps during Diwali. These alternatives are known for being more environmentally friendly and can help reduce air pollution.
4. Responsible Waste DisposalAfter Diwali, it’s common for people to generate a significant amount of waste, including paper and plastic. To ensure an eco-friendly Diwali and maintain a clean environment, it’s crucial to dispose of this waste properly. Burning waste can release harmful substances like sulphur dioxide, nitrous oxide, and particulate matter into the air, increasing air pollution. Instead, dispose of waste responsibly to prevent pollution.
5. Address Indoor PollutionFirecrackers not only contribute to outdoor pollution but can also impact indoor air quality. Installing air purifiers that use a 4-stage purification process, such as HEPA technology, can help remove indoor contaminants and improve the quality of the air indoors, especially during the Diwali season.