Diwali and its Environmental Impact: How to Celebrate Eco-friendly Diwali

Diwali is celebrated with great excitement and enthusiasm in India and other countries around the world. This wonderful festival unites people of all ages and communities and represents the triumph of good over evil.

Diwali is traditionally celebrated with fireworks, sparkling lights and sweets, but as sustainability becomes more common, concerns are growing about the festival’s impact on the environment. Diwali has an undisputed impact on the environment. Celebrating an eco-friendly Diwali can help mitigate these impacts and promote sustainable practices.

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What impact does Diwali have on the environment?

1. Air pollution

One of the most prominent aspects of Diwali celebrations is the firecrackers, which are known to be the major cause of air pollution throughout the festival. These firecrackers produce a variety of dangerous chemicals that are harmful to the air. Air pollution levels rise significantly around Diwali, causing breathing difficulties for people, especially those suffering from respiratory ailments.

2. Noise pollution

The noise levels produced by firecrackers are also well above the permissible limits, especially in densely populated areas. Excessive noise pollution can disrupt humans, animals, and even local ecosystems. This noise pollution affects animals, especially domestic pets, and birds that are sensitive to loud sounds.

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3. Water pollution

During Diwali, water bodies often become polluted due to soaking of idols and waste. Residues from these items are made from non-biodegradable materials and chemical coatings that can contaminate water and harm aquatic life. Removing these contaminants requires significant effort and resources.

4. Waste generation

Diwali celebrations often involve the use of disposable items for decorations, candy wrappers and gift wrappers. Much of this waste is made of plastic and is non-biodegradable, ending up in landfills or clogging waterways.

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How to celebrate eco-friendly Diwali?

While traditional Diwali customs are rich in cultural significance, small changes can help reduce environmental impact and promote sustainability. Here are some ways to celebrate eco-friendly Diwali:

1. Switch to LED lights and traditional Diyas

Choosing LED lights instead of traditional lights can save energy because they last longer and use less electricity. Furthermore, in addition to being important cultural symbols, earthen or oil lamps are also beneficial to the environment. Choose reusable and biodegradable oil base and support local artisans.

2. Avoid setting off firecrackers

Firecrackers are one of the most harmful elements of traditional Diwali celebrations. Avoiding them entirely can significantly reduce air and noise pollution. Instead, you can choose environmentally friendly alternatives, such as fireworks with lower chemical content or noiseless fireworks. These alternatives are safer options. You can find them in many stores and enjoy a celebratory feel with minimal impact on the environment.

3. Choose natural decorations

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Instead of plastic decorations, use natural, biodegradable materials such as flowers, leaves and paper materials. Marigold flowers, mango leaves, and banana leaves are all beautiful and eco-friendly decoration options. You can also make rangolis using rice flour, flower petals, turmeric or henna powder instead of artificial colorings that usually contain chemicals.

4. Limit electricity usage

Minimize excessive lighting, especially in outdoor spaces, to reduce electricity consumption. Turn off lights when not in use and limit decorative lighting to a few hours in the evening.

5. Give away sustainable products

Consider giving eco-friendly gifts like indoor plants, handmade candles, organic skin care products, or reusable items like fabric bags and stainless steel bottles. You can also opt for reusable or biodegradable wrapping paper, or avoid wrapping paper altogether by using cloth, jute or even newspaper.

6. Organize community clean-up events

After Diwali, organize or participate in a community clean-up event and help collect waste from the celebrations. This not only keeps public spaces clean but also raises awareness about the importance of reducing and managing waste.

7. Promote recycling

Many decorations, wrapping paper and containers can be recycled. After the holidays, encourage family and friends to sort and recycle as much rubbish as possible. Choose biodegradable and recyclable products when planning your celebration.

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What are the advantages of celebrating an eco-friendly Diwali?

There are several benefits to switching to an eco-friendly Diwali:

• Improved air quality: By refraining from setting off firecrackers and using less electricity, air pollution will be reduced, making breathing healthier, especially for those who are more susceptible to the effects.
• Reduce waste: Using natural decorations, biodegradable products and recycled materials can reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfill.
• Family and community connections: Organizing a clean-up event or making handmade decorations are two sustainable ways to celebrate Diwali that can also improve relationships within the community.
• Wildlife Conservation: Animals, especially birds, pets and other wild animals, are often negatively affected by noise and pollution during Diwali. Therefore, reducing noise and air pollution can help protect these creatures.

Diwali is a time of joy, togetherness and reflection. As the world becomes more aware of the importance of environmental protection, celebrating Diwali in an eco-friendly way allows us to protect the environment while respecting traditions. By making small changes to reduce pollution, minimize waste and support sustainable practices, we can ensure that future generations can enjoy a clean and healthy planet.

Source: https://dinhtienhoang.edu.vn
Category: Optical Illusion