As Ganesh Chaturthi has grown in popularity, so has the festival’s environmental impact, particularly the immersion of non-biodegradable idols made of plaster of Paris (PoP) into water bodies. This has led to water pollution, harm to aquatic life, and degradation of ecosystems. Eco-friendly practices have become crucial to balancing devotion with environmental responsibility.

Eco-friendly Idols

The shift towards eco-friendly Ganesh idols made of natural clay, organic paints, and biodegradable materials is gaining momentum. These idols dissolve quickly in water without leaving harmful residues, protecting the environment while allowing devotees to honour Lord Ganesha’s teachings of wisdom and respect for nature.

Sustainable Practices

Alongside the adoption of eco-friendly idols, many households and public pandals are embracing sustainable practices such as reducing plastic use, choosing natural decorations, and organizing post-festival clean-up drives. The dissemination of knowledge through workshops and awareness campaigns is playing a crucial role in spreading the message of sustainability during the festival.

A Collective Effort

Celebrating Ganesh Chaturthi in an eco-friendly way not only reduces environmental impact but also brings communities together in a shared mission of protecting the planet for future generations.