“Festivals and the Planet: How to Celebrate Green and Sustainable, this Diwali”

Diwali brings colour, community, and joy — but they can also bring plastic waste, air pollution, and excess.

As awareness grows, more people are embracing the idea of a Green Diwali.

Find practical ideas for eco-friendly decorations, sustainable gifting, and waste-free celebrations right here — Diwali which is kind to the planet. Let’s explore how small, mindful choices can make every celebration a festival of sustainability.

1. Skip the plastic hangings and metallic streamers that end up in landfills. Instead, try: – Earthen diyas: Clay diyas are biodegradable and symbolize purity. You can paint them with natural colors or turmeric-based paints. – Fabric torans & buntings: Use cotton, jute, or felt instead of plastic. They last for years. – Banana leaves & marigold garlands: 100% compostable and vibrant.

2. Lighting defines Diwali — but it can also spike your power consumption. Try: – LED lights: Energy-efficient and long-lasting. – Solar string lights: Charge during the day, glow all night without electricity. – Diyas with organic oil or ghee: A warm, natural light that also supports local potters

 3. DIY Green Decorations – Paper lanterns from recycled paper or old newspapers. – Upcycled glass jars as candle holders or mini terrariums. – Rangoli with natural powders — turmeric (yellow), rice flour (white), beetroot (pink), spinach (green), coffee (brown). – Floral rangoli using petals and leaves instead of synthetic colors.

 4. Eco-Friendly Gifts and Wrapping Decorate your gifts responsibly too. – Wrap with brown paper, old newspapers, or fabric scarves (furoshiki style). – Add dried flowers or leaves as natural embellishments. – Choose plantable greeting cards or seed bombs as return gifts.

 5. Repurpose What You Already Have Before buying new items, check what can be reused – – Old sarees as table runners or wall backdrops. – Glass bottles for fairy lights. – Cardboard boxes for DIY lanterns or decorative trays.

 6. Decorate Your Community Too A truly green Diwali goes beyond your home – Organize a community diya-painting drive with local potters. – Encourage neighbours to go cracker-free and plastic-free. – Decorate your apartment gate or street with shared solar lights and plants