Lessons to learn from Kerala

Did you know that Kerala has a “green protocol” for wedding ceremonies? Of course those from Kerala would know but can the other states also take a lesson or two?

The state govt has set out certain rules to ensure that weddings become more nature friendly. This protocol includes no usage of plastic and other non-biodegradable articles including disposable glasses and plates and thermocol decorations. People are now persuaded to use glass tumblers, plates and other utensils.

Inspections will be held at marriage halls, convention centres and hotels and other venues of the wedding ceremony in this regard and action would be taken if the protocol is violated.

In fact the Onam celebrations this time too followed the green protocol. As part of the awareness campaign against the use of plastic carry bags, the squad distributed paper bags to the crowd at different areas. During the week-long celebrations, plastic carry bags, bottles and other materials were allowed to be carried in only with a sticker and by paying a nominal fee, which was returned only if the items were produced while leaving the venue.  Drinking water kiosks were put up at regular intervals along the entire stretch of the procession, with steel tumblers used for serving water.

Wish Mumbai too implements such a rule… the garbage dump left behind after the Ganesh Visarjan was preposterous!