Lights, cleaning, action! How to celebrate a low-waste Diwali without missing out on the fun

Last update:October 27, 2024, 10:36 IST

To create a cleaner and greener celebration, brighten your Diwali with happiness and eco-friendly choices.

This Diwali, let’s light up responsibly!

Diwali, the festival of lights, is synonymous with joy, togetherness and renewal. However, celebrations often leave a trail of waste: remains of firecrackers, plastic decorations and excessive packaging. As India moves towards its vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, a more sustainable and eco-friendly Diwali can be a small but impactful step towards reducing environmental damage while preserving the spirit of the festival. By incorporating waste management strategies and adopting a circular economy, we can enjoy a vibrant Diwali without leaving a negative footprint.

Waste management strategies: greener celebrations

Rethinking our Diwali habits with a focus on sustainability does not mean losing the joy of the festival. Here are some practical ways to celebrate more responsibly.

1. Eco-friendly decorations:Swap out plastic decorations for biodegradable alternatives like clay diyas, bamboo torans and fabric garlands. Upcycling is another great option – revitalize old decor by repainting diyas or using old saris as wall hangings, reducing waste and keeping the aesthetics intact.
2. Firecracker Alternatives:Traditional firecrackers are known to generate air and noise pollution. Opt for eco-friendly alternatives like light shows, laser displays, or even virtual celebrations. If firecrackers are part of your Diwali tradition, consider green crackers that emit less smoke and noise, making a small but important contribution to cleaner air.
3. Reusable tableware:Hosting a Diwali party? Ditch single-use plastic plates and cups and opt for reusable or biodegradable serving utensils, such as areca leaf plates or bamboo cutlery. To further reduce waste, encourage guests to bring containers for leftovers instead of using plastic to-go options.
4. Composting food waste:Since food is an important part of Diwali celebrations, a lot of waste can be generated. Instead of throwing away leftovers, start getting into the habit of composting. Organic waste, such as fruit peels and food scraps, can be composted and used to enrich the soil, turning waste into a resource.

Embrace the circular economy: rethink consumption

This Diwali, align with the circular economy by rethinking consumption patterns. In a linear economy, products are used and discarded, contributing to waste. The circular model promotes reuse, recycling and reuse, ensuring minimal waste generation.

Sustainable shopping can make a big difference. Choose eco-friendly brands that offer biodegradable Rangoli colors, upcycled decor, and sustainable candles. Instead of buying new holiday outfits, consider renting or upcycling old clothes to create new looks. This not only reduces textile waste but also reduces the demand for fast fashion.

Youth as an element of change: leading the low waste movement

India’s youth, particularly Generation Z, are at the forefront of the low-waste movement. Their eco-conscious actions, from community cleanups to advocating for recycling and reuse, are transforming the way Diwali is celebrated. Youth-led initiatives often focus on waste segregation and recycling campaigns, ensuring minimal waste after the festivities. Diwali digital campaigns led by young voices are also helping to raise awareness, encouraging eco-friendly alternatives that do not compromise the joy of the celebration.

Towards Viksit Bharat 2047: a better future

A low-waste Diwali resonates with the broader vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, where sustainability is integral to India’s growth and resilience. Every small action, whether adopting waste management strategies, practicing green habits or supporting circular economy initiatives, contributes to this vision.

This Diwali, let us light up our homes and communities without harming the environment. By adopting simple, mindful changes, we can enjoy a holiday season that is not only joyful but also responsible, paving the way to a greener, brighter and more sustainable future.

(With contributions from Abhishek Agashe, co-founder and CEO of elima)