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

Last updated:Oct 27, 2024 10:36 IST

To create a cleaner, greener celebration, light up your Diwali with good luck and eco-friendly decisions.

Let’s light up responsibly this Diwali!

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

Waste Management Strategies: Greener Celebrations

Rethinking our Diwali customs with a focus on sustainability doesn’t mean losing the joy of the festival. Here are some practical ways to celebrate more responsibly.

1. Eco-friendly decorations:Swap plastic decorations for biodegradable alternatives like clay diyas, bamboo torans and fabric streamers. Upcycling is another great option: give new life to old decorations by repainting diyas or using old saris as wall hangings, thereby reducing waste and keeping the aesthetics intact.
2. Firecracker alternatives:Traditional fireworks are notorious for causing air and noise pollution. Opt for eco-friendly alternatives such as light shows, laser displays or even virtual celebrations. If fireworks are part of your Diwali tradition, consider green firecrackers that emit less smoke and noise and make a small but important contribution to cleaner air.
3. Reusable tableware:Organizing 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 take-out food.
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 composting. Organic waste such as fruit peels and food scraps can be composted and used to enrich the soil, turning waste into a resource.

Embracing the circular economy: rethinking consumption

This Diwali joins the circular economy by rethinking consumption patterns. In a linear economy, products are used and thrown away, contributing to waste. The circular model promotes reuse, recycling and repurposing, guaranteeing minimal waste production.

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 festive outfits, consider renting or upcycling old clothes to create new styles. This not only reduces textile waste, but also reduces the demand for fast fashion.

Youth as a game changer: Leading the low-waste movement

India’s youth, especially Generation Z, are at the forefront of the waste reduction movement. Their environmentally conscious actions, from community cleanups to advocating upcycling and reuse, are transforming the way Diwali is celebrated. Youth-led initiatives often focus on waste separation and recycling, ensuring minimal waste after the festivities. Digital Diwali campaigns led by young voices also help raise awareness and encourage eco-friendly alternatives that do not compromise on the joy of the festival.

Towards Viksit Bharat 2047: a better future

A zero-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 eco-friendly habits or supporting circular economy initiatives – contributes to this vision.

This Diwali, let’s brighten up our homes and communities without harming the environment. By making simple, conscious changes, we can enjoy a festive season that is not only joyful but also responsible, paving the way for a greener, brighter and more sustainable future.

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