This year, celebrate Diwali with joy and responsibility

Eco-friendly alternatives for a sustainable Diwali

Environment

Festival

October 28, 2024

/ By / New Delhi

This year, celebrate Diwali with joy and responsibility

The challenge lies in balancing the joy of celebration with the need for environmental responsibility (Photo: MIG)

Each year, vibrant celebrations of Diwali bring excitement and joy, but they also pose significant environmental challenges. This year, focus on balancing festivities with eco-conscious choices that honour both our traditions and our planet.

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Diwali, by far the biggest festival in India, is just around the corner, bringing with it an air of anticipation and excitement, as frenzied shopping for gifts, sweets and firecrackers gets underway. 

However, this vibrant celebration also raises significant concerns regarding environmental pollution and its impact on local flora and fauna. Each year, the Diwali evening brings cheer, only to leave behind a dense cloud of pollution as highly toxic chemicals released during bursting on seemingly countless firecrackers hang in the air for many days to come.

This year, days before Diwali, in Delhi, the capital of India, and other parts of northern and central India, the air quality index (AQI) has already reached “very poor” levels, creating a hazardous environment for residents. The combination of firecrackers, increased vehicular emissions, dust pollution, and burning of agricultural waste contributes to a critical situation that poses serious health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly.

As the country prepares for the festivities, the challenge lies in balancing the joy of celebration with the need for environmental responsibility. This Diwali, many are encouraged to seek eco-friendly alternatives, such as noise-free and low-emission fireworks, as well as promoting the use of sustainable decorations and materials.

By making conscious choices, we can preserve the spirit of Diwali while also safeguarding our health and the environment.

Green Crackers or No Crackers

Green Crackers or No Crackers

Alternatively, you might opt to skip the crackers altogether and celebrate in a more sustainable way (Photo: Canva)

If you can’t resist the allure of fireworks, consider choosing eco-friendly alternatives like green crackers. These are designed to produce significantly less smoke and noise, helping to minimise air and sound pollution. They use less harmful chemicals thus reducing the toxic emissions while still providing the visual excitement of traditional fireworks. 

Alternatively, you might opt to skip the crackers altogether and celebrate in a more sustainable way. Gather your family and friends for a festive evening filled with music, dance, and creative light displays. You could set up beautiful lanterns or fairy lights to create a magical atmosphere.

Engaging in fun activities, like preparing festive meals or sharing stories, can also foster a sense of community and joy without the environmental impact. 

Skip the plastic, decorate with nature’s gifts

 handcrafted diyas

By choosing handcrafted diyas, you support local artisans who rely on these sales for their livelihoods (Photo: Canva)

This Diwali, consider embracing a more sustainable approach by using diyas (earthen lamps) that are biodegradable and LED lights, along with recycled decorations, to illuminate your home. Opting for traditional diyas instead of electric lights not only reduces your energy consumption and saves money but also has a positive impact on the environment. 

By choosing handcrafted diyas, you support local artisans who rely on these sales for their livelihoods. When you purchase these beautiful, eco-friendly diyas, you bring joy not only into your home but also into the lives of those who create them. 

Additionally, incorporating LED lights can further enhance your decorations while being energy-efficient. Using recycled materials for your festive décor not only minimises waste but also adds a personal touch to your celebrations. 

By celebrating Diwali in this way, you not only brighten your own home but also contribute to a larger cause, supporting artisans, protecting the environment and promoting a sustainable future.

Making Rangolis with organic colours

Making Rangolis with organic colours

This year, consider using fresh flowers, leaves, and natural materials like rice flour or coloured powders for rangoli (Photo: Canva)

Rangoli is a vibrant and artistic expression that plays a significant role in the festive spirit of Diwali. These intricate designs, created on the floor, not only adorn our homes but also welcome guests and symbolise prosperity and joy. 

This year, consider using fresh flowers, leaves, and natural materials like rice flour or coloured powders for rangoli. These elements not only bring a burst of colour and creativity but also promote sustainability, as they are compostable and eco-friendly. 

Using fresh flowers adds a delightful fragrance and a touch of nature, while rice flour and natural powders allow for creative designs that can be both traditional and contemporary. Incorporating organic materials connects one to nature and helps reduce plastic waste, aligning with the spirit of mindful living.

Moreover, involving family and friends in the rangoli-making process can foster a sense of community and joy, making it a cherished activity during the festival. 

Thoughtful gifting

Thoughtful gifting

Handmade products, such as handcrafted candles, pottery, or textiles often carry a unique charm and support local artisans  (PhotoMIG/ShashiSahai)

Consider giving gifts that not only delight the recipient but also contribute positively to the environment and communities. Handmade products, such as handcrafted candles, pottery, or textiles often carry a unique charm and support local artisans. Reusable bags are another fantastic option. 

They help reduce single-use plastic waste and come in various designs, making them both practical and stylish. Choose bags made from organic cotton or recycled materials for an added eco-friendly benefit.

Plants also make thoughtful gifts, breathing life into any space. Consider low-maintenance options like succulents or herbs, which can thrive indoors and bring a touch of nature to your loved ones’ homes. 

When it comes to wrapping these gifts, opt for recyclable materials to keep the eco-friendly theme intact. Brown paper, fabric scraps, or even old newspapers can create a charming, rustic presentation. You can add a personal touch by decorating the wrapping with twine, dried flowers, or handwritten notes. 

Embracing these alternatives not only protects the planet but also creates lasting memories that truly capture the spirit of celebration.

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