Green Diwali

Diwali is meant for new beginnings so we, the students at BITS Pilani- K.K.Birla Goa Campus pledge to celebrate a Green Diwali. Diyas lit on the moonless Diwali night signifies the end of darkness, ignorance and the beginning of light that enlightens all. This Diwali, we choose to enlighten all about the hazards posed to the environment by the boisterous celebrations of Diwali.

Eco friendly crackers

One can, of course, try and burst fewer crackers or none at all. But if you’re one of those who just can’t celebrate Diwali without sending a few rockets into the sky, then opt for the eco-friendly variety. These crackers are made up of recycled paper and the sound produced by these crackers is under the decibel limit defined by the Pollution Board. These crackers produce paper fluffers and different color lights instead of sound on bursting.

Get the traditional feel

Light diyas in the true spirit of Diwali, rather than opting for electric illumination which will only use up electricity. Though earthen lamps need oil, the quantity required is very less and it burns for at least 3-4 hours.

This will help you save electricity and also add a traditional stroke with social responsibility in the festival.

Gifts go organic

Go green this Diwali and gift your family and friend from an organic store.These days there are plenty of options in organic gifts from exotic food items to cosmetics and personal use items to bags and clothes. Go one step ahead and wrap your gifts in handmade or recycled paper, jute or cloth bags.

Decorate the eco-friendly way

Opt for natural decorative items like flowers and leaves instead plastic decorations which are detrimental for the environment. Fresh flowers, foliage and floating candles can be used to decorate the house. Rangolis and alpanas are more traditional ways to decorate the courtyard.

Reduce Energy Consumption

The festival of lights puts a considerably heavy load on electrical energy sources that are already overloaded. The use of electric lights to adorn homes, business establishments, monuments and roads requires a huge amount of electricity. The older tradition of burning oil lamps is a possible alternative to electric lights - even though it does use oil, the duration of the lamps is shorter.

Be generous and donate

Diwali can be a great time for recycling and donating unused items lying around the house. Often there are a lot of clothes and toys that are no longer in use.

It is hoped that this articles will encourage you to celebrate a green Diwali, where there will be an explosion of joy without crackers!

Wishing all readers a Happy Diwali and a Prosperous new Year!!!