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This Diwali, let’s celebrate in a way that not only brightens our homes but also nurtures our planet.
Dev Diwali Puja can be done in Twilight or Amrit Kaal.
As the world becomes more environmentally conscious, individuals and businesses alike are looking for ways to celebrate festivals sustainably. Diwali, the festival of lights, provides a perfect opportunity to align our celebrations with eco-friendly practices, supporting a healthier planet while honoring tradition. We offer valuable insights on how to celebrate Diwali sustainably without compromising the joy of the festival.
Embracing Traditional, Eco-Friendly Decorations
Traditionally, Diwali has been a sustainable festival at its core, with decorations that honor nature. As Shailendra Singh Rao, Founder, Creduce points out, using clay diyas (oil lamps) not only enhances the festive atmosphere but is environmentally friendly. “Clay diyas are biodegradable and can be reused or disposed of in a way that doesn’t harm the environment,” he explains. LED diyas are another option, providing energy efficiency and longevity. For those wanting to add a more natural touch, decorating with flowers, leaves, and fruits not only brings nature into the home but also adds charm while being fully biodegradable.
Isha Marwaha, Product Head and DVP, EZ Capital, echoes the importance of natural decorations, suggesting that companies can engage employees by hosting workshops to create DIY eco-friendly decor from recycled materials like paper, cardboard, and plastic bottles. “These workshops not only reduce waste but give a personal, hands-on touch to the celebrations,” she says, encouraging businesses to get creative while emphasizing sustainability. Additionally, opting for digital invitations and greetings instead of traditional paper options can reduce environmental impact, setting a thoughtful example.
Choosing Sustainable Gifts and Supporting Local Artisans
The tradition of gifting during Diwali offers another avenue to make a positive impact. In recent years, handmade and locally sourced items have gained popularity, reducing the carbon footprint associated with mass production and transportation. “Instead of material gifts, consider gifting experiences, like a concert, a spa day, or even a donation to a cause,” Rao suggests, highlighting the benefits of gifts that don’t create physical waste but add meaning.
Marwaha adds that choosing eco-friendly presents, such as organic products, reusable bags, or items crafted by local artisans, can be a powerful way to reduce plastic waste while supporting small businesses. Supporting local vendors also means reduced transportation emissions, which aligns with the sustainability goal of minimizing one’s carbon footprint. By making these choices, individuals and businesses can add deeper purpose to their festive gifts, encouraging others to follow suit.
Eco-Friendly Lighting and Community Fireworks
Lighting is an integral part of Diwali, and there are plenty of energy-efficient options available today. Rao recommends using LED or solar-powered lights, which help save energy and last longer, reducing waste over time. Turning off extra lights can also create a cozy ambiance, enhancing the warm glow of diyas and LED lamps.
Eco-friendly firecrackers that emit lower levels of pollutants are a newer option for those who enjoy fireworks but want to keep emissions in check. “Community firework displays are a wonderful way to celebrate together while reducing individual contributions to pollution,” Rao adds, emphasizing the joy that shared experiences bring, especially when approached responsibly.
Mindful Food Choices and Community Activities
Diwali wouldn’t be complete without delicious food, and sourcing ingredients locally and choosing seasonal produce is another sustainable choice. By focusing on local produce, the carbon emissions associated with transportation are reduced, and communities are strengthened as local farmers and vendors benefit. For businesses, catering from local sources or hosting potluck-style gatherings allows for both variety and sustainability.
Rao also encourages organizing community activities as a way to celebrate responsibly. “Tree planting, community clean-ups, and educational programs on sustainability add meaning to the festivities and benefit everyone in the long term,” he says. Incorporating these activities into Diwali celebrations can deepen the connection to nature and reinforce a sense of responsibility to protect the environment.
Creating Lasting Impact through Sustainable Festivities
As Marwaha aptly puts it, “Celebrating festivals sustainably can be both joyful and environmentally friendly with a few thoughtful choices.” By embracing these practices, businesses and individuals alike can make their celebrations more harmonious with the planet. This approach, focused on reducing waste, supporting local communities, and celebrating consciously, helps to create a lasting impact, making the festive season even more meaningful for everyone involved.
Through thoughtful choices, from eco-friendly decorations to mindful gifting and community engagement, each festival can become an opportunity to honor both tradition and the environment. This Diwali, let’s celebrate in a way that not only brightens our homes but also nurtures our planet.