Media Dossier
Breath of Fresh Air : Celebrating a Smoke-Free Diwali
State Pollution Control Board, Odisha, Centre for Environmental Studies and SwitchON Foundation Unite for Smoke Free Diwali and to Say No To Firecrackers for a Greener and Healthier Festival of Lights
11-12 November 2023 , Odisha
Details
In an effort to promote a more eco-friendly and healthier way to celebrate Diwali, and to abide by the Supreme Court's directives against the use of conventional firecrackers across the country and allow only green crackers with reduced emission and decibel levels, SwitchON Foundation in collaboration with State Pollution Control Board, Odisha and Centre for Environmental Studies, Forest and Environment Department, Govt. of Odisha held a statewide public awareness campaign titled ‘Smoke Free Diwali’ urging and appealing citizens to say no to firecrackers. The initiative aims at raising public sensitivity towards the pollution caused by bursting crackers and illustrates how the effect is not just immediate, but long term.
As part of the initiative, several schools, colleges and organizations came together to take part in various activities for celebrating an eco-friendly Diwali. Several schools and colleges of Odisha from Bhubaneswar, Puri, Cuttack, Angul, Anandpur, Rourkela, Bhawanipatna, Daspalla, Kendrapara, Keonjhar, Nayagarh, Rayagada, Sonepur, Baligaon and many other cities enthusiastically participated in the Smoke Free Diwali. One of the highlights of the Smoke Free Diwali campaign was the Online Pledge to say no to firecrackers. Approximately 1000 concerned children and youth pledged online to say no to firecrackers. The collective commitment to reduce air pollution and protect our environment was an inspiring testament to the power of unity.
Other initiatives included a range of competitions that allowed children and youth to express their creativity and support for a smoke-free Diwali. From stunning Rangoli designs to intricately painted diyas, heartfelt poems, and powerful posters conveying the message of an eco-friendly festival, participants showcased their talents and commitment to a greener future. In an effort to promote creativity, environmental consciousness, and cultural celebration, several Origami Workshops for children were organized along with the Centre for Environmental Studies.
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Online Coverage
The Times of India
The Telegraph
https://epaper.telegraphindia.com/south%20bengal/2023-11-12/73/Page-5.html
OdishaRay
https://www.odisharay.com/pages/single_page.php?id=41145
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