The Scientific Significance of Diwali: Understanding Fireworks and Pollution

Diwali is very much a festival of light, and especially from environmental and scientific aspects, a great cultural importance has also been attached to the effects of fireworks. This paper considers the analysis of Diwali celebrations, the fireworks usage, and the intensity of pollution that has already been created mainly in such urban areas as Delhi.

Air Quality and Fireworks

The level of air pollutants increases by a very large amount during Diwali due to the usage of firecrackers. Studies have shown that due to emissions from firecrackers, the concentration of particulate matter (PM2.5) might increase significantly. In fact, on Diwali days, PM2.5 levels can surge up to 40%, and concentrations even reach alarming figures such as 900 μg/m³ in Delhi, a far cry from the annual average air quality guideline provided by the World Health Organization at 5 μg/m³.

Fireworks release various harmful substances into the atmosphere, including:

• Particulate Matter (PM10 and PM2.5)
• Sulphur Dioxide (SO₂)
• Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂)
• Heavy Metals (e.g., lead, barium, cadmium)

A 2018 study highlighted that fireworks contribute significantly to air quality deterioration during Diwali, with overall pollution levels remaining elevated for several days post-celebration. The toxic haze created by these emissions poses serious health risks, particularly respiratory issues among vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly.

The hazardous respiratory illness due to this atmospheric pollution generally occurs with vulnerable children or elders for several extended periods since they suffered grievous attacks once exposed to that toxic area.

Environmental Impact

Air quality is impacted because of burning fireworks. It results in:

Soil Pollution: The residues formed after firework burning may end up poisoning the soil.

Water Pollution: The debris of fireworks may result in microplastic pollution of water bodies.

Noise Pollution: Loud explosion creates havoc to humans and animals, stress, and health disorders.

Fireworks contribute to climate change by emitting greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide (CO₂) and carbon monoxide (CO), which have an influence on atmospheric conditions and contribute to phenomena like acid rain when combined with other pollutants.

Cultural Considerations and Alternatives

Although firecrackers cause severe ill effects on air quality and public health, they remain a significant component of Diwali. However, people are getting more conscious about more environmentally friendly methods. Some states in India have banned firecrackers or promoted "green" firecrackers that release less pollution. A few suggestions for celebrating a greener Diwali are as follows:

• Use of eco-friendly lights and decorations.
• Organize cultural events for communities that do not allow fireworks.
• Create awareness about the health effects of firecracker pollution in the environment.

The scientific significance of Diwali is beyond the cultural celebrations. It marks issues critical to environmental health and the management of pollution. Creating awareness regarding the hazardous impacts of fireworks on air quality and public health makes it imperative that communities look for alternative means to celebrate this precious festival in ways that do minimal harm to the environment.