Celebrating festivals should not cost us the environment. Here is a checklist for you to make sure you can celebrate a sustainable Diwali with your loved ones:
1) FIND YOUR SUSTAINABLE DIWALI LOOK
This year, you can get your Diwali outfit from sustainable brands that are long-lasting and use eco-friendly fabrics. Slow fashion promises minimal eco-impact. You can thrift across stores- online and offline. There are also innovative ways to upcycle an old lehenga or kurti for your perfect festive look. In conclusion, no fast fashion!
2) GOODBYE, FIRECRACKERS
Is the hype around “Diwali ke patake” really worth what it costs the environment? A scientist told Forbes that these fireworks undergo a chemical reaction which further releases smoke and gases that are responsible for climate change. Despite the bans and awareness of the detrimental impact, fireworks are still in great demand.
Are sparklers a good option?
Don’t underestimate the impact of sparklers only because of its size. According to RecycleNation, sparklers are generally made up of an iron rod, an oxidizer (to produce colour), fuel (to keep it burning) and a binder(to hold it all together). These components make it non-recyclable. However, the concept of green firecrackers is also gaining momentum.
3) DIYAS WITH A TRADITIONAL TOUCH
If we’re cutting off fireworks from the checklist, diyas is an eco-friendly way to celebrate the festival of lights. It’s traditional and elegant- what’s not to like? You can also choose to use less electricity and light diyas and scented candles to add a special touch to your home this Diwali.
Choose eco-friendly diyas made out of cow dung or clay with no harmful colour or adornments. You can also experiment with making your own diyas using waste like pista shells from the festive-special dry fruit boxes. The number of innovative, low-waste ideas is endless!
4) CHOOSE SUSTAINABLE GIFTS
In the true spirit of an eco-friendly Diwali, spread joy with sustainable gifting options from sustainable and homegrown brands. Gifting preloved items can also be a great way to promote and initiate conversations about slow fashion or sustainability in general.
5) WRAP GIFTS RESPONSIBLY
Responsible gift wrapping is definitely a must. Give your presents a personal touch with better gift-wrap alternatives such as printed fabrics, recycled papers or go with the good old-fashioned newspaper style. This eco-friendly gift wrapping in banana leaves for instance, is a great example for innovative and newer gift wrapping alternatives. You can also replace ribbons with natural elements such as dried flowers and leaves.
6) GO ORGANIC WITH YOUR RANGOLI
Instead of using artificial colours that are said to have serious effects on the environment as well as your health, you can opt for organic colours or make your own rangoli colours using turmeric, dried hibiscus petals and more. Look around for flowers that can add more colour to your rangoli.
7) CELEBRATE A GREEN DIWALI
As the concept of a green Diwali is gaining more popularity, here are a few things to take care of while planning your party:
- Avoid buying idols made up of Plaster of Paris. Choose clay-based or paper mache idols instead.
- Choose fresh flowers and leaves to decorate your space.
- Support your local vendors
- Serve food in leaf plates since a lot of paper cutlery requires very specific conditions to be met in order to qualify as recyclable.
- Dispose all waste responsibly.
8) DON’T FORGET TO SAVE WHAT YOU CAN
For instance, you can store your long-lasting decor and mud diyas until next year. In this way, you lessen the burden on landfills. You can also try upcycling to make things look less repetitive.
Adding the element of sustainability to your festivities can make it feel even more special and responsible. These small steps can go a long way for the betterment of all.
This festive season, take a look at The Good Directory to discover sustainable brands and learn more about conscious living with. Spread joy and the idea of sustainable living with your loved ones. Wishing you a happy Diwali.
Written by, Angelica Cardoza
