T'puram: The state govt's Suchitwa Mission has directed that Diwali celebrations in Kerala should be conducted while minimizing environmental pollution and maintaining cleanliness. Based on orders from the Supreme Court and National Green Tribunal, the state pollution control noard also recommended the use of eco-friendly fireworks. "Firecrackers that produce noise should not be used within 100 metres of silent zones such as hospitals, courts, educational institutions and places of worship. Fireworks should be used during the two-hour window from 8-10pm," said Suchitwa Mission executive director U V Jose. He said that green fireworks are less polluting compared to traditional ones as they are made by altering the chemical composition of regular fireworks, reducing the amount of chemicals used, and adding ingredients that decrease the emission of smoke and gases. "This can reduce the level of particulate matter in the atmosphere by up to 30%. Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organization (PESO) certifies that the noise intensity does not exceed the specified limits. Hazardous heavy metals are completely eliminated in green fireworks," Jose added. Green fireworks approved by CSIR-NEERI will have a special QR code, he said. Using green fireworks can prevent hazardous heavy metals like mercury, lead and arsenic from dissolving in water and causing harm to soil and water bodies.