From ditching balloons to creative alternatives, here’s how you can honour the nation while caring for the planet.
Published Jan 25, 2025 | 9:30 AM ⚊ Updated Jan 25, 2025 | 9:30 AM
Republic Day Celebration with customary tricolour-themed decorations. (Supplied)
On Republic Day, the sight of tricolour balloons soaring into the sky evokes pride and joy. Yet, what happens after they drift away is less picturesque. The reality is that balloons, made of non-biodegradable materials, often end up as environmental hazards.
“Balloons don’t disappear; they land somewhere, harming soil, water bodies, and wildlife,” explains Odette, founder of the volunteer group Beautiful Bharat. The group has been running a campaign called ‘No Balloons Please‘ since 2018, aiming to raise awareness about the ecological dangers of balloon use during celebrations.
Fragments of balloons are frequently ingested by animals, causing injury or death. Strings attached to balloons entangle birds and marine creatures, and dyes in the balloons can pollute soil and water. Odette adds, “Even ‘biodegradable’ balloons take years to decompose, causing harm in the meantime.”
Moreover, helium balloons pose an additional challenge. Although helium is a nonrenewable resource vital for medical and scientific purposes, it is often misused for decorative purposes.
Celebrating Republic Day sustainably doesn’t mean giving up on vibrancy or fun. Here are some eco-friendly alternatives:
Paper Decorations: Handmade tricolour streamers, flags, and buntings from recycled or waste paper are easy to create and reuse. Odette mentions how Beautiful Bharat shared DIY guides during the COVID-19 lockdown, inspiring children across the country to craft paper decorations for their apartments.
Beautiful, eco-friendly decorations can replace balloons without compromising the festive spirit. (Supplied)
Cloth Buntings: Reusable cloth decorations are a durable and stylish alternative. “We’ve partnered with local tailors to repurpose fabric scraps into sustainable bunting,” Odette says. This initiative not only reduces waste but also supports local artisans.
Natural Elements: Flowers, leaves, and other natural materials can be used to create beautiful, biodegradable decorations. Communities can involve children in collecting and arranging these, fostering a deeper connection with nature.
Eco-Friendly Vendors: For those who prefer ready-made options, a growing number of sustainable decoration vendors offer paper, cloth, and flower-based solutions. Supporting these businesses can further promote eco-conscious practices.
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Natural decorations like garlands and floral arrangements add colour and fragrance while being biodegradable. (Suplied)
Sustainability isn’t just about what we use—it’s also about spreading awareness. Schools and housing societies can engage children and residents in activities that emphasise the importance of protecting the environment. Competitions on eco-friendly decoration ideas or discussions on waste reduction can instil these values from a young age.
To amplify the message, Beautiful Bharat has started a petition urging the government to rethink the practice of releasing balloons during national celebrations. With over 70,000 signatures, the campaign is growing, and you too, can be part of it. By signing and sharing, you contribute to creating a greener future.
Republic Day is a moment of pride, a celebration of India’s rich history and progress. But true patriotism lies in honouring the land that sustains us.
Let’s reimagine our traditions, choosing sustainable ways to celebrate the tricolour and leaving a cleaner, greener nation for future generations.
To support this cause, sign the petition here. Together, we can make a difference!
(Edited by Sumavarsha Kandula)
