Celebrating festival of lights, the eco-friendly way

Diwali is a festival which embraces positivity and brings with it a host of celebrations. But, often, the pollution and mass wastage mar the festivities. This time around, take an oath to do the right thing, and celebrate in a responsible manner.

UPCYLED DECOR:

Things lying around your house that you don’t need anymore? Well, they can be recycled to make amazing decor items. Make Diwali torans out of handmade waste paper, old signages or other items at home. You can also revamp old jam or pickle jars rather than buying new lamps, using them as tea light candle holders. Ditch electric lights, re-cycle your old diyas or use biodegradable ones made out of coconut shells.

RANGOLIS

There are several eco-friendly alternatives to this festive staple. Make your own rangoli colours by using dried flowers, leaves, and kitchen ingredients like flour, coffee powder, etc or use herbal gulals. Use old strips of lace, pearls or ribbons to decorate.

DON’T WASTE, DONATE

Hosting guests means tons of food, and it can result in wastage, too. Keep in touch with groups like Robin Hood Army, Feeding India and others, or visit the streets where you know you can donate food to the needy.

GREEN GIFTS

Diwali is your chance to promote greens. From kitchen herbs to air purifying plants — the options are many to light up someone’s day.