Eco-Friendly Celebrations: Pune: PMC Urges Citizens To Avoid POP Idols And Support Sustainable Practices 

To protect and preserve the environment, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) issued guidelines on May 12, 2020, prohibiting the use of Plaster of Paris (POP) for idol making. Citizens are urged not to purchase POP idols.

The guidelines for artisans and manufacturers include:  

• 1. Material: Idols must be made only from natural, biodegradable, and eco-friendly materials like traditional clay. The use of toxic or non-biodegradable materials such as POP, plastic, and thermocol is strictly prohibited.  
• 2. Decorations: Jewelry for idols should be crafted from natural materials like dried flowers, straw, and tree resins for a shiny effect.  
• 3. Paints: Use only eco-friendly, biodegradable, and non-toxic natural colors, such as water-based paints. The use of toxic, non-biodegradable chemical paints, oil paints, enamels, and synthetic colors is banned.  
• 4. Clothing and Colors: Decorate idols with washable, removable clothing made from natural materials. Use colors derived from plants (flowers, bark, leaves, roots, seeds, fruits) or naturally occurring minerals and rocks.  

A meeting with idol makers in the Pune region was held on January 2, 2025, chaired by Sanjay Shinde, Deputy Commissioner of Environment, Pune Municipal Corporation, to emphasize compliance with these eco-friendly practices.  

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Citizens are urged to prioritize purchasing idols from artisans and manufacturers who strictly follow these guidelines and contribute to celebrating eco-friendly festivals.  

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