Eco Friendly Food Tips

Reusable containers: Avoid using one time plastic instead use stainless or bamboo containers when giving sweets. Source ingredients locally; use crops farmed locally to reduce your negative impact on the environment.
Reduce the amount of leftovers: Serve lesser portions and provide take-home portions for guests.

Ecological Decorations: Less Wastage More Beauty Decorating the house and the surroundings with rangoli is another major feature of Makar Sankranti. In fact, decorations are such an integral part that one cannot but get carried away by all kinds of plastic rangoli and colored streamers.

Use decoration material that is naturally sourced or made from recyclable materials. It can be made out of flowers, leaves, or fabric. You will be able to create a pretty, eco-friendly decoration that could be composted or reused next year. There is something elegant about natural decorations: they don’t only look great but also resonate with the spirit of the season.

Ideas for Green Decorations

Fabric buntings: Reuse old fabrics to create colorful bunting and streamers for your home.
Flower garlands: Use fresh flowers for garlands, which can be composted after use.
Recycled paper lanterns: Create eco-friendly paper lanterns from recycled materials.

Responsible Waste Disposal: A sustainable celebration does not happen only during the festival but also in the manner in which we dispose of the waste afterward. Most Makar Sankranti celebrations are riddled with lots of single-use plastics, food packaging, and general waste, which adds up to the landfill. But we can reduce all this waste by a little planning.

Set up bins specifically for recyclables and non recyclables. Encourage the guests to put their trash away responsibly. In case of larger celebrations, one might consider even renting compostable plates, cups, and cutlery to make less waste. It is in simple actions that we can differ at how much we are wasting on the festival day.

Tips on Responsible Waste Management

Separate bins: Have separate bins for recyclables and non recyclables so that everyone can dispose of waste properly.
Compostable party supplies: Use compostable plates, cups, and cutlery made from bamboo or palm leaves.
Recycle old kites: After the festival, ensure that all non biodegradable kites are disposed of responsibly.

In line with the sustainability theme, Makar Sankranti can also be a time to give back to the community and the planet. Consider supporting local eco-friendly businesses or making donations to organizations focused on environmental conservation or sustainable farming. This can help bring the true meaning of the festival to life—celebrating new beginnings, prosperity, and harmony with nature.