Diwali is a national festival commemorated across the country. Friends and family gather around, homes are adorned, and every city and town is filled with a joyful atmosphere. Children adore this celebration because it allows them to take a lengthy break, have more time to play, indulge in sweets, and get gifts.
In recent years, parents and kids all over India have become more aware of how Diwali affects our environment and health. However, many are still unaware of what environmentally friendly changes can be made to improve it for future generations.
Moreover, our actions influence how our kids behave. As a result, it is our job to impart environmental awareness to children so that they can enjoy Diwali safely for many years to come.
So, from the top boarding school in Dehradun, here are some eco-friendly ways that might help you celebrate Diwali in a way that is both fun for your child and true to its spirit.
Say Yes to Green Crackers, Please!
Despite the fact that we are aware that setting off fireworks causes significant air and noise pollution, it has long been a tradition to do so during Diwali. So, one of the greatest methods and the best ecological idea to reduce pollution is to avoid using firecrackers at all. However, if you and your kids can’t stop yourself from bursting crackers, go for the more effective alternative: green crackers.
Green crackers are created from recycled paper and create less smoke and noise within the permitted limits (125 dB — 145 dB).
Choose Energy-Saving LED Lights Over Low-Quality Alternatives
Purchasing low-quality lights may appear to be a realistic alternative, but they waste far more electricity than energy-saving lights. LED lights, on the other hand, use 80% less energy, emit less heat, are recyclable, and are available in a variety of colors.
Avoid The Usage of Plastic and Go Green!
Instead of purchasing brand-new, ready-made plastic lanterns, decide to build recycled paper lanterns with your kids. This will not only benefit the environment but will also allow you to spend quality time with your child while celebrating an eco-friendly Diwali. Swap the plastic flowers or decorations for flower torans.
Make an All-Natural Rangoli
Rangoli or Kolams were originally used to share our food and lives with insects and birds. Even today, in southern areas, the Kolam is produced with rice paste or dry rice flour and serves as a feast for insects and tiny birds. So, this Diwali rather than using artificially manufactured colors, try using natural colors to add color to your rangoli and keep the spirits of an eco-friendly Diwali alive!
For yellow, brown, and red, consider adding kumkum, turmeric, and coffee powder. You may also add some leaves and flowers like chrysanthemums, roses, lotuses, and roses to make it even more cheerful. Not only is this a great ecological idea, but you can also remove it the next day and place it directly in your compost bin, as opposed to a chemical-colored rangoli.
Eco-Friendly Presents
The presents are something that everyone looks forward to on every Indian occasion. These presents, however, are often packaged in single-use plastics. So, this year, instead of wrapping your gifts, use paper or jute bags.
Handmade greeting cards provide a unique and personal touch. You might also give environmentally friendly presents, such as home plants. Gifting tulsi or hibiscus plants to loved ones makes their houses greener and adds a classic touch.
Avoid Driving Personal Vehicles
Many of us drive to our relatives’ homes in our personal vehicles. This adds to the pollution caused by crackers and lights. Taking public transportation may assist to alleviate the situation while avoiding traffic jams!
When you consider these adjustments, they may appear to be easier said than done. However, keeping Diwali greener is an urgent requirement, especially in many places that suffer from the post-Diwali haze.
These are some very simple things that every one of us may adjust to regarding how we celebrate the festival of lights. Put greater emphasis on choosing environmentally friendly alternatives, limit the usage of plastic, and adopt recycling and renewability as your new guiding principles. A tiny action on your part can have a great impact on the well-being of nature. So, this Diwali, let us rise above the gloom of ignorance and contribute to society in the best ways possible.
