Diwali, also called the Festival of Lights, is one of the most popular festivals in the South East Asian culture. The occasion celebrates the victory of good over evil. Lamps and candles are lit to chase away the darkness of ignorance and welcome the bright light of enlightenment. This is a time of reflection, thanks and renewal. This Diwali take the time to reflect on the things you can do to make your Diwali celebration an eco-friendly one.

Diwali Cleaning
Every year families clean their homes from top to bottom in preparation for Diwali. The cleaning is done to harmonize the space around you so as to derive positive energy. Any unwanted clothes and household items can be donated to a local shelter. Cleaning up refers to more than cleaning your home. It also means cleaning up your environment, so pick up some litter from the ground!

Avoid the Fireworks
Firecrackers have become an important part of Diwali celebrations. But the temporary joy of watching firecrackers is quickly replaced with a stinky toxic smell. Toxic substances used in the firecrackers aren’t very good for us or the environment. Celebrate by lighting candles and diyas (small clay pots filled with oil in which a wick is lit) and avoid the fireworks.

A Candle-Light Diwali
Since Diwali is the Festival of Lights, this is a good time to remind ourselves of all the energy and resources it takes to light up our homes and businesses. On Diwail, many people leave all the lights on in their home. Please avoid this. Use diyas and candles instead of electric illumination. They look nicer and cut down on energy consumption. If you’re putting up outdoor lights, use LED lights; they come in bright colors and use 80% less energy than traditional lights.

Also, keep in mind that the deeper meaning of Diwali is not about lighting up our homes; it’s about dispelling darkness in our lives and ushering in positive feelings and energy.

Take one of your mom’s old sarees and drape it over a canvas to make a great piece of art.

Buy Less
Since Diwali is also a celebration of abundance and wealth, many people believe that it is a good time to buy. Often, people go out and buy new items even when they don’t need them. Cut down your shopping list and avoid purchasing unnecessary things this Diwali. Instead of buying gifts, make them! Bake some goodies, paint a picture or take one of your mom’s old sarees and drape it over a canvas to make a great piece of art.

This Diwali take the time to reflect on the things that you can do to live responsibly and reduce your impact on the environment. A little thought and care can make a huge difference.

Wishing you and your family a Happy Diwali!