Sunday Times 2
Holi colours toxic for environment
View(s):If you thought playing with colours was a safer option than Diwali fire crackers, it may be time to think again. Scientists have found that Holi, like the festival of lights, is an environmental hazard. Researchers Joy Joseph Gardner from University of Rajasthan and Deepanjali Lal from Jaipur National University have studied the effects of colours used during Holi on both water and soil, and the study has produced some startling results.
The artificial colours that are used are highly structured polymers and are next to impossible to decompose biologically. “These colours are prepared from harmful substances such as acids, mica, glass powder and alkalis. They are not readily degradable under natural conditions and are typically not removed from waste water by conventional waste water treatments. Thus, several bacteria have been found to decolourise, transform and completely mineralise coloured soil and water in both aerobic and anaerobic conditions,” the report stated.
These colours are also capable of causing serious skin complications and allergies. Another study conducted under the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan revealed that chemical colours have all but wiped out vegetable dyes. “Harsh chemicals used in the colours can cause itching and rashes which can lead to eczema or dermatitis. Dry skin leaves a lot of scope for damage from these harmful chemicals as the skin layer allows the colour to penetrate easily.
“Those with a history of eczema or atopic dermatitis run greater risk as they develop allergic contact dermatitis more readily which manifest in itching, rashes and swelling,” said Dr Nitin S. Walia, senior consultant, Dermatology, BLK Super Speciality Hospital.
Artificial colours can lead to skin allergies, irritation, redness, rashes, itching and bumps. Colours are prepared on a small scale and lack any kind of quality checks.
Colours which include dye are openly sold in the market without any information regarding their chemical nature, purity or toxicity.
The report shed light on the urgent need to put the manufacturing of colours under the guidelines of the Food and Drug Cosmetic Act and the Bureau of Indian Standards.
Follow @timesonlinelk
comments powered by Disqus