Ganesh Chaturthi is a vibrant festival celebrated with captivating decorations, heartfelt prayers, and joyful gatherings, embodies the rich spirit of cultural heritage. This year, on 7th September 2024, devotees across the country will once again come together to honor Lord Ganesha. However, in recent years, growing concerns have emerged regarding the environmental impact of traditional celebrations, particularly due to the immersion of non-biodegradable idols.
But don’t worry – there are many simple ways to make your Ganesh Chaturthi celebration both sustainable and eco-friendly, ensuring that devotion and environmental care go hand in hand.
Opt for Eco-Friendly Idols
Switching to eco-friendly idols is one of the most impactful ways to protect the environment during Ganesh Chaturthi. Traditional idols, often made from materials like plaster of Paris or metals, can severely harm marine ecosystems and contribute to soil erosion when immersed in water bodies. Additionally, the chemicals used in these idols can pose serious health risks due to contamination.
In contrast, eco-friendly idols, crafted from natural materials like clay or mud, are free from harmful toxins. They dissolve harmlessly when submerged, causing no damage to water resources or wildlife.
In the same context, on behalf of Swayam Doshi, founder of Suspire India, a representative stated, "Many people today are leaning towards sustainability. In just five to six days, Suspire India received an average of over 150 orders. We also suggest individuals plant the clay idol instead of submerging it in water if they prefer."
Similarly, Ashok, a representative from Seed Ganapathy, explained, "We strive to make our Ganesh idols as environmentally friendly as possible. Our Seed Ganesha idols are made from natural clay, embedded with seeds, and use minimal or no paint. Designed to dissolve in water and grow into plants, they symbolize renewal and life, providing a sustainable way to celebrate while leaving a positive impact on the environment."
He also highlighted their DIY Grow Kit, saying, "Our kit offers a complete eco-friendly gifting experience, including a handcrafted clay Ganesha idol embedded with seeds, a cocopot, cocopeat disc, extra seeds, and a step-by-step instruction card. This thoughtful kit allows people to celebrate sustainably by growing a plant after the pooja."
Natural and Sustainable Decorations
Enhance your celebrations by replacing synthetic, non-recyclable decorations with organic and biodegradable alternatives. Use fresh flowers, leaves, and natural fibers to bring a touch of elegance to your space. Upcycle materials like old fabrics, flower pots, and natural garlands to create unique, eco-friendly décor, ensuring that your celebration is both beautiful and environmentally conscious.
Ease of Crafting and Disposal
While idols made from plaster of Paris may seem convenient due to their lightweight and glossy appearance, they are far from eco-friendly. On the other hand, idols crafted from natural materials like clay or mud are heavier and may not have the same shine, but they are far easier to make and dispose of responsibly. Biodegradable idols disintegrate safely in water, causing no harm to aquatic life or water quality, making them a much better option for both nature and the community.
Making world a sustainable place
Choosing environment friendly options with Ganesh idols to celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi is an excellent concept. By lowering water pollution, preserving aquatic life, and encouraging sustainability, these idols harmonize religious beliefs with natural principles. In addition to respecting tradition, using natural, biodegradable materials helps create a cleaner environment and happier communities. The festival will be more conscientious and harmonious if eco-friendly alternatives are adopted, as this shows a commitment to protecting our environment for future generations.
