Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy across India and among Indian communities worldwide. However, the festivities often lead to increased waste, particularly from decorations, packaging, and food. This year, let’s embrace the spirit of sustainability by adopting eco-friendly practices. Here are seven tips to help you reduce waste during Diwali:

Eco-friendly decorations

Instead of using single-use plastic or synthetic decorations, get creative with natural materials like dried flowers, colourful leaves, and charming clay diyas to brighten your home this Diwali. You can even upcycle items from around the house, turn old newspapers into beautiful paper flowers, leftover fabric into lovely garlands, or glass jars into lanterns! These handmade decorations not only reduce waste but also add a personal touch to your celebrations. So, let your creativity shine brighter than any plastic decoration, and make your home feel extra special with the love and effort you put into making it festive. 

Choose sustainable gifts

Gift-giving is a big part of the Diwali celebration, and this year, let’s make it more sustainable! Instead of choosing plastic or pre-packaged gifts, consider giving something special like handmade crafts, potted plants, or even experiences like cooking classes or spa days that create lasting memories. These thoughtful gifts not only bring joy but also help the environment. And don’t forget about wrapping! Instead of using plastic wrap, try using colourful fabric or newspaper to wrap your gifts. It’s a fun way to be eco-friendly and adds a unique touch to your presents. 

Managing food waste

Food waste is a big problem during festive seasons, but we can easily tackle it with some planning. Start by thinking ahead about your meals and make a list of the dishes you want to prepare along with the quantities you’ll need. This way, you won’t overcook and waste food. Using local and seasonal ingredients is another great way to keep things fresh and tasty while reducing your carbon footprint. Plus, don’t forget to encourage your guests to take home any delicious leftovers. If there are any food scraps left, consider composting them to give back to the earth. With a little bit of planning and creativity, we can enjoy a feast without the waste this Diwali!

Use LED lights

While diyas are a beloved tradition during Diwali, many people also like to use electric lights to brighten their homes. This year, consider switching to energy-efficient LED lights! They use less electricity and last much longer than regular bulbs, making them a smart choice for the festive season. By opting for LEDs, you’ll not only help the environment but also save on your electricity bills. So, light up your home with these vibrant, eco-friendly options, and enjoy a dazzling Diwali without the guilt!

Be mindful of fireworks

Fireworks are a classic part of Diwali celebrations, but they can cause a lot of air and noise pollution. This year, why not consider some fun alternatives? You could host a community gathering, enjoy a lively cultural programme, or simply light up your home with beautiful diyas and candles. These options create a warm and festive atmosphere without harming the environment. If you do decide to use fireworks, make sure to buy from reputable vendors who offer green crackers. Let’s make this Diwali bright and cheerful while keeping our air clean and our neighbourhoods peaceful!

Recycle and dispose responsibly

After the festivities, it’s super important to dispose of waste responsibly! Start by sorting your trash into biodegradable, recyclable, and non-recyclable categories. This makes it easier to manage and reduces the impact on our environment. To take it a step further, why not organize a community clean-up drive? It’s a fun way to get everyone involved, promote responsible disposal, and encourage recycling in your neighbourhood. Let’s keep our surroundings clean and beautiful long after the celebrations are over!

Support local artisans

During Diwali, many talented artisans craft stunning handicrafts, sweets, and decorations that add a special touch to the celebrations. By supporting local artisans, you not only help reduce waste from mass-produced goods but also boost the local economy. So, keep an eye out for markets or fairs showcasing handmade products! Purchasing directly from the artisans not only gives you unique and meaningful items but also allows you to appreciate their hard work. This Diwali, let’s celebrate the spirit of craftsmanship and make a positive impact by choosing handmade products!

Have a safe and happy Diwali!