Diwali: A Celebration of Light with a Green Twist

Diwali: A Celebration of Light with a Green Twist

Dikumoni Hazarika

As the Diwali festival begins, an October morning buzzes with the festive sounds of firecrackers, mostly set off by enthusiastic children.

In larger cities, regulations have clamped down on the sale and use of firecrackers due to severe pollution issues. However, in many smaller cities where air quality remains moderate, the tradition persists.

Yet, the impact of firecrackers on the environment is increasingly concerning, and it is essential to recognize the consequences on nature and health.

While Diwali brings immense joy, it also heightens air pollution risks, with this year’s Air Quality Index (AQI) painting Delhi’s skies in orange smog, intensifying respiratory conditions and other health issues.

Diwali’s Environmental Impact: A Cause for Concern

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During Diwali, air quality worsens across India due to the widespread use of firecrackers. Harmful pollutants, such as particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), sulphur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), and heavy metals, pollute the air, posing serious risks to public health. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), all of India’s population (100% of the country’s population) is exposed to unhealthy levels of PM2.5, the most harmful pollutant, from various sources.

Martin Raiser, Vice President for South Asia at the World Bank, emphasizes,

“Persistently hazardous levels of air pollution have caused a major public health crisis in South Asia that demands urgent action. Curbing air pollution requires not only tackling its specific sources but also close coordination across local and national jurisdictional boundaries. Regional cooperation can help implement cost-effective joint strategies that leverage the interdependent nature of air quality.”

Raiser’s words call for joint efforts across regions to curb pollution through sustainable and eco-conscious practices. One such approach is adopting a “Green Diwali” to reduce pollution and its health hazards while celebrating responsibly.

Simple Steps for A Pollution-Free Diwali 

1. Say No to Firecrackers and yes to Green Crackers

Switching to green crackers, which are designed to emit less pollution, is a safer and more eco-friendly way to celebrate Diwali. These crackers significantly reduce the release of harmful fumes, allowing families to enjoy fireworks with minimal impact on the environment.

2. Choose Eco-Friendly Candles and Lamps

Traditional clay lamps and eco-friendly candles are beautiful alternatives to plastic lights. By supporting clay lamp artisans, you are contributing to sustainable practices and helping small-scale producers who rely on this seasonal demand.

3. Create an Organic Rangoli

A festive rangoli is an essential part of Diwali décor. Rather than using chemical colours, consider natural ingredients like turmeric, cloves, and cinnamon powder to create intricate designs. Dried flowers and petals also make for a vibrant, biodegradable rangoli that is safe for the environment.

4. Ditch Plastic in Favor of Recyclable Wrapping

Gift-giving is a cherished part of Diwali, but plastic packaging contributes significantly to pollution. Opt for handmade paper, cloth, or other recyclable materials for wrapping gifts. You could even consider gifting potted plants, which serve as lasting mementos and benefit the environment.

5. Use Biodegradable Crockery

If you are hosting Diwali gatherings, choose biodegradable plates, cups, and cutlery instead of plastic ones. Eco-friendly tableware reduces waste and helps lower the carbon footprint of your festivities.

6. Paint Your Home with Eco-Friendly Colours

The festive season often calls for fresh paint in homes. Choose eco-friendly paint options that have a minimal environmental impact. Additionally, these paints can be used to decorate clay lamps, adding a personal and environmentally conscious touch to your celebrations.

Green/Eco-Friendly Diwali: A Step Toward a Cleaner Future

Diwali’s charm lies in the warmth of togetherness, the vibrance of lights, and the joy of traditions. By adopting eco-friendly practices, we can ensure that this cherished festival remains a celebration of light and positivity without compromising the environment.

Each step we take towards a green Diwali be it through sustainable decorations, natural materials, or green fireworks not only preserves the purity of this beautiful festival but also contributes to a healthier planet for generations to come. 

It is the prime responsibility of parents to guide their children in understanding the impact of firecrackers on air quality and the environment. Explaining the concept of air pollution in simple, relatable terms can help children grasp why avoiding firecrackers is essential for a healthier future.

Parents can illustrate how pollution affects our lungs, plants, animals, and even the beauty of clear skies, linking it to things children care about, like being able to play outside in fresh air.

This year, let us pledge to avoid noisy firecrackers and, instead, light up our neighbourhoods with beautiful lights that bring warmth without pollution. 

DIKUMONI HAZARIKA, PhD. Research Scholar

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