The festival of lights is all about sharing love and joy with our dear ones. But have we ever considered the impact on our environment amid these celebrations?

Here are eight effective and sustainable shopping practices you can follow to celebrate an eco-friendly Diwali.

1. Invest in earthen diyas: This Diwali, take that extra effort to purchase earthen diyas instead of wax candles. These diyas are readily available, affordable, and help support local potters also.

2. Carry your own cloth bag: One of the best ways to avoid plastic is to carry your own cloth/jute bag while shopping. These bags are biodegradable and add an apealing touch too.

3. Opt for natural flowers:  Why purchase artificial flowers when nature provides us with beautiful blooms like jasmine, marigold, and more? Natural flowers are biodegradable and perfect for decoration.

4. Try eco-friendly rangoli:  Use household items like turmeric, kumkum, rice flour, and other similar ingredients to create a sustainable yet vibrant rangoli, avoiding harmful chemicals.

5. Support local weavers and handlooms:  Choose sustainably crafted garments from local weavers and handloom artisans. These options often use natural materials and traditional methods, making them a stylish, greener alternative to fast fashion.

6. Explore sustainable gifting:  Take your gifting up a notch with eco-friendly products like succulents, homemade treats, or sustainable skincare, adding a personal touch to your gifts.

7. Purchase eco-friendly firecrackers:  Enjoy Diwali by bursting green firecrackers that emit 15-30% fewer chemicals, making it more eco-friendly.

8. Upcycle gift wrappers: Wrap your Diwali presents with paper bags, newspapers, or charts. Use twine as an alternative to ribbons, along with a personalised note to share the warmth of Diwali.