Go Green and safe this festive season!

Glittering lights, boxes of sweets, freshly painted homes and family reunions mark the festive season! However, according to India Pollution Control Board, Delhi and other cities suffered the worst smog in 17 years after firecrackers worth crores of rupees were burnt on Diwali and Dussehra in 2017. This year as responsible students and citizens you can make a positive change to our community by celebrating in the safest way. Here are 3 simple steps you can take towards a green festive season:

1. Light eco-friendly diyas and lanterns

During the days of celebrations, electric lights consume a huge amount of power. Avoid noise and air pollution through toxic fire-crackers. As an alternative, you can buy Diya’s and illuminate your house with its glow. You can use organic Rangoli colours, natural fresh flowers and paper lanterns to do your best as a citizen to save the environment!

2. Recycle or donate old materials

Spread joy and happiness every festival by donating your old clothes, toys, shoes and books to the less privileged. Find an organization near you that is collecting old items. You can also run a drive at your college or work-place. Add a personal element by buying greeting cards made out of recycled paper and send across wishes to your loved ones.

3. Plan your gifts well

Recycle or reuse old materials to create a gift for loved ones. In India, any festive gift easily translate into sweets, nuts and chocolates. This time, for gifts choose from hand-made candles, lampshades, organic gift-baskets, gourmet coffees, special teas or even plants. Gift traditionally made handicrafts to your mentors and family. Most handicrafts are made from locally available material and also are source of livelihood of artisans across the country.

According to a study published in Nature Communication, Switzerland, “It is known that actually helping others and being generous to them increases happiness.” Celebrate all your festivals by spreading goodwill and leave the environment a better place. This can be kept in mind year round, by using organic clay during Ganesh Chaturthi, organic colors during Holi, local hand made gifts for Christmas and of-course going green during Diwali. Make a change to your environment in a positive way and lead the way for a better India!