Diwali is a festival of fun, food and lights, and of course reunions with friends and family. But with a lot of fanfare comes to waste and pollution. Here are some of the tips to celebrate Diwali in a pollution-free and eco-friendly way.
Say no to Crackers
People love firecrackers, but we need to realize that Diwali is a festival of lights. It is about togetherness and the festival of good victory over evil. Crackers contain harmful elements like sulphur, cadmium, copper, Barium, and Aluminium. On burning, they release Nitrous oxides and particulate matters which cause smog. During Diwali, the pollution in the air goes up by 30%. This Diwali embraces the true essence of Diwali, which is a festival of light, purity, and harmony.
Use Clay Lamps
Using diyas to light up our house and surroundings is an age-old Diwali practice. Sustainability isn’t a trend. It has been passed on through generations. Use clay lamps, old diyas, and LED lights instead of fancy lamps.
Use disposable/ biodegradable cutlery
Diwali is majorly about food, delicacies, sweets and again lots of food. People opt for styrofoam dishes and plastic cutleries that are easily disposable to cut down on the hassle of washing dishes. Make use of banana leaves or plates made of dried sal leaves instead. They are bio-degradable and do not leave behind waste like single-use cutlery.
Make a biodegradable Rangoli
Rangoli also known as Kolam in Southern India is an ancient religious floor art. But the importance of Rangoli is not just related to religion or decoration. This Diwali, try drawing the true purpose of Rangoli by making your own colours. Turmeric powder, dry sand, rice flour, salt, coffee powder, and kumkum create a palette of colours for making Rangoli.
Opt for Sustainable Gifting
The best thing you can give someone is a sustainable habit. Instead of passing down sweets to your friends and relatives, this Diwali gifts them something valuable. Bags made of cotton, jute, or recycled kinds of cotton. Dresses made from fabric are eco-friendly and sustainable.
