As November arrives, Thailand’s rivers come alive with the vibrant celebrations of the Loy Krathong festival. This famous event, known for its hand-crafted krathongs, fireworks, and floating lanterns, draws visitors from around the world, marking Thailand as a top destination for the festival. While it’s a time for reflection and to give thanks to the Goddess of Water, we must also consider the environmental impact it leaves behind. Have you ever thought about what happens the day after this grand celebration? The festival often results in waste that clogs rivers and even house fires caused by floating lanterns. This year, let’s rethink how we enjoy Loy Krathong and explore ways to celebrate sustainably.
A Brief History of Loy Krathong
Loy Krathong, though widely celebrated in Thailand, actually has roots in South Western Tai communities as a floating vessel ritual. In Thailand, it’s a way to honor the Goddess of Water, Phra Mae Khongkha (พระแม่คงคา), from Hindu mythology, reflecting the cultural influence of India on Southeast Asia. Neighboring countries like Laos and Cambodia also celebrate similar festivals, offering thanks to their rivers, such as the mighty Mekong.
The Day After Loy Krathong
While the beauty of floating krathong on the water is mesmerizing, the aftermath often paints a different picture. Every year, the festival leaves behind tons of waste in rivers. In the past, krathongs were made from biodegradable materials like banana trunks, leaves, flowers, and bamboo stick pins. However, modern krathongs increasingly use non-biodegradable materials like plastic foam, artificial flowers, and metal pins. These materials pollute the water, harm aquatic life, and eventually break down into microplastics, which enter our food chain.
A Sustainable Approach to Loy Krathong
Even though the festival is a significant source of waste, there are ways we can celebrate responsibly. Here are some suggestions for a more eco-friendly Loy Krathong:
- Virtual Krathong Floating: Some communities now offer online platforms where you can float a virtual krathong, reducing physical waste and still participating in the ritual.
- Choose the Right Materials: If you prefer a traditional celebration, make sure your krathong is made from eco-friendly, biodegradable materials like banana leaves, bread, or natural flowers. Avoid plastic, metal pins and foam.
- Celebrate in Local Markets: Instead of buying mass-produced krathongs, support local artisans who craft eco-friendly ones, or even make your own.
- Raise Awareness: Talk to others about the environmental impact of the festival and advocate for cleaner, greener celebrations. Small changes in behavior can lead to a big difference for our rivers.
By embracing sustainable practices, we can enjoy the beauty of Loy Krathong while protecting our rivers and environment. Let’s make Loy Krathong, a celebration not only of tradition but of our commitment to a cleaner, greener planet.
