Ganesh Chaturthi 2025: Simple and effective ways to make Ganesh Chaturthi more eco-friendly

From Ganesha to greenery — this year’s Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations are turning sustainable with eco-friendly idols, edible murtis, and zero-waste rituals. (Image: Pexels)

Ganesh Chaturthi marks the official beginning of India’s festive season, and this year, many devotees are giving the celebration a meaningful green twist. Beyond the upbeat dhol music and trays of modaks, the 10-day-long festival — which culminates on September 6 with a grand visarjan — is doubling up as a platform for sustainability. From plantable idols to conscious décor, the focus is firmly on celebrating in ways that honour both Lord Ganesha and the planet.
Plantable Idols:

One of the most beautiful trends this year is the rise of eco-friendly clay and plantable idols. Unlike plaster-of-Paris (PoP) murtis that pollute water bodies, these idols are crafted from natural clay and dissolve easily at home. Plantable Ganeshas, which come embedded with seeds, are becoming especially popular. After visarjan, the idol is immersed in water, and the seeds are replanted — eventually blooming into plants. The symbolism is perfect: from Ganesha to greenery, a cycle of renewal that leaves behind life instead of pollution.

Also Read: Green Ganesh Chaturthi 2025: Natural decor, eco-friendly ideas and more, to celebrate the festival

Conscious Decorations:

Décor has also taken a sustainable turn. Instead of plastic buntings and thermocol backdrops, homes are being adorned with fresh flowers, mango leaves, and marigolds. Old saris and dupattas are being repurposed into colourful drapes and buntings, showing that sustainability can be stylish. Rangolis too are going natural with turmeric, rice powder, and flower petals — replacing chemical paints with vibrant, eco-friendly colours. For lighting, families are choosing clay diyas and LED bulbs, cutting down electricity consumption while maintaining a traditional festive glow.
Edible Ganpati:

Another innovative practice gaining traction is edible Ganpati idols, which can be homemade or purchased from sweet shops. Made from chocolate, coconut, or even vegetables, these idols are immersed in milk or water during visarjan and later distributed as prasad. It’s a thoughtful way to celebrate without leaving waste behind — and it ends the festivities on a sweet note.
Sustainable Essentials:

Puja rituals too are embracing eco-friendly alternatives. Brass or wooden thalis, soy wax candles, and handcrafted items made from bamboo, jute, clay, or cotton are replacing plastic-heavy puja décor. Even the flowers used during worship are being reused — for instance, marigolds can be scattered in gardens where they grow afresh, turning devotion into new life.

Also Read: 5 saree colours for Hartalika Teej inspired by south actresses to look your festive best
Eco-Friendly Feasts:

Food, a central part of Ganesh Chaturthi, is also becoming more mindful. Homemade prasad, laddoos, and organic fruits are being served in leaf plates (pattals) or steel thalis instead of disposable plastic ware. Families hosting gatherings are reducing waste by sticking to reusable tableware and recycling puja water and milk.