A Greener Diwali: Light Up Your Life, Not the Pollution

Diwali is one of the most affectionate recognized festivals in India which is marked and enjoyed as a celebration of triumph of light over dark and good over evil. It is also rejoiced with joy and unity as loved ones come together in order to appreciate the Diwali lights and indulge in great food. However, there is an issue that pertains to certain customs but primarily with regards to certain activities which aggravate the already big problem of air pollution. As we embrace the season of Diwali, let us pause and consider how health or the environment can be preserved in the observance of the said festival.

The Beauty and Significance of Diwali

Diwali is more than just a festival; it is a historical and culturally rich occasion. It is rooted in the stories of victories and hopes, as it celebrates the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya, after defeating the evil King Ravana. People light the diyas (small clay bowls filled with oil and a wick) and decorate the places and share sweets among family members as these traditions represent love, wealth, and togetherness. Diwali is in a sense a festival that fills joy in people of various cultures, creating a feeling of happiness and appreciation towards everyone. It is an indication of hope, a positive spirit that lies inside every individual, and the exuberance and joy expressed when all come together in a joyous festival.

The Dark Side of Diwali: Air Pollution

It is somewhat funny to observe the irony that illuminations which signify converting dark to brightness are engulfed in the age-old practice of bursting crackers during Diwali celebrations. However, Diwali celebrations in India have the capability of performing a complete reversal when it comes to the air quality, for the blowing of crackers that comes with the season contributes to emissions of several toxic gases like hydrogen sulphide, nitrogen oxides along with suspended particles that are present for several weeks.

Any dose of exposure to these constituents is harmful and may lead to deterioration of health by causing aggravation of respiratory diseases, high chances of cancer of lungs and heart-related illnesses. It is not only an individual concern since health risk due to air pollution is also community concern or even a global problem because air pollutants have contributed to the problems of climate changes creating ecosystems imbalance by reducing trees cover, wet and dry deposition and loss of biodiversity.

In metropolitan areas such as Pune, the negative impact on the air quality during Diwali is severe. Research indicates that the level of air pollution during the festive times is at most conditions hazardous to health among children, the elderly, and people with chest complaints and often follows the healthy limits. For the inhabitants of Pune, this level of pollution calls for a radical change in how we celebrate Diwali as concerns for pollution and health are becoming even more important.

A Greener Diwali: Lighting the Way to a Cleaner Future

Sustainability during the festival of Deepawali does not mean depriving oneself of enjoyment or traditional practices, rather it means finding factors that are less harmful for the environment, while enabling us to celebrate, effectively and responsibly. Use of diyas, or energy-aiding LED lights for decorating the interiors of a house, does create the same festive spirit without causing harm to the surroundings. The practices of distributing sweets and presents and spending time with family and friends involve the happiness of Diwali as well without causing any form of pollution.

Tree planting is one of the strategies which has an effect of reducing the pollution levels caused by Dolalis. In that trees filter these pollutants when they release oxygen back into the atmosphere making the conditions more favorable than it would be without them. YTDS’s Tree Plantation Initiative encourages and helps people in organizing tree plantations so as to promote tree growing in areas where there is a need for bedding ut in order to make the region healthier and habitable for all the inhabitants. One tree at a time, these activities help to ensure that the next generation enjoys a clean green environment.

Call to Action

This Diwali, let’s observe the festival of lights without compromising on our civilization and the environment. Little measures such as using green decor instead of plastic, reducing firecracker activities, and engaging in tree planting actions mean so much. Join YTDS’s tree plantation drives, or if you are unable to work, please donate for a cause that is aimed at ensuring a clean and green environment.

We can have a Diwali which brings warmth into our hearts and not the smoke pollution. Help us in Keeling and provide for the growth and care of our planet. This Diwali, let’s resolve to celebrate, in a manner compliant with the true spirit of our traditions, but which also respects the healthy state of the environment.