CSIR develops less polluting firecrackers

Speed Post News Network

New Delhi : Union Minister for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences, Environment, Forest & Climate Change Dr Harsh Vardhan while addressing a presser here on October 29, 2018, said the CSIR scientists have developed Less Polluting Firecrackers which are not only environment friendly but 15-20 % cheaper than the conventional ones. These crackers have been named as safe water releaser (SWAS), safe minimal aluminium (SAFAL) and safe thermite cracker (STAR).

Stating that the Indian Fireworks industry is over Rs 6,000 crore worth annual turnover and provides employment opportunities to over 5 lakh families directly or indirectly, Dr Harsh Vardhan said that this endeavour of CSIR aims at addressing the pollution concerns protecting the livelihoods of those involved in this trade. He mentioned that firecracker manufacturers took keen interest in laboratories throughout the process and the new crackers would not require changes in their manufacturing facilities.

Dr Vardhan also listed a number of steps to make further improvements in the firecrackers. “First time in India, an Emission testing Facility has been established at CSIR-NEERI and extensive testing is in progress for conventional and green crackers for monitoring the emissions and sound,” he said. This facility uses all sophisticated instruments for measurement and sampling when firecrackers are used.

The Minister also informed that a raw material characterisation facility is also coming up as it has been found that many times the poor quality raw materials used in firecrackers are the major sources of particulate matter pollution. CSIR would be detailing further strengthening by installation of additional facilities for raw materials testing at Sivakasi. This activity is likely to be initiated for testing in next two months after completion of certain formalities.

Taking a comprehensive view of the firecracker sector, Dr Vardhan said that in tune with its Scientific Social Responsibility, CSIR has been working on long term and futuristic goals which would lead to clean and safe Diwali, according to a PIB release.