FIN principle: #MinimizePollution
The idol of Ganesh is generally made up of clay, Plaster of Paris (POP), plastic and cement. Toxic paints containing heavy metals like lead and mercury are often used in decorating the idol. After the immersion, the ingredients of the statue does not completely dissolve in water which then leads to environmental pollution. Oxygen levels in water go down, acidity goes up and heavy metals percolate into water – killing fish, plants and causing skin problems for people bathing in the water.
So, as part of FIN’s Green Academy Project, FIN staff, Meena, Nagalaxmi and Ranjita teach extracurricular activities for an hour every week in the two Panchayat schools in Kameswaram village. In recent weeks, they have guided the children in making Ganesha idols in flour (maida) and painting them in non-toxic water colours. The children were made to understand why we were doing this and were really very proud to take their bio-degradable non-toxic Ganesha idols home. On Monday, when they will be immersed in some pond in Kameswaram – the fish will get some food and be happy!
Less Pollution – More Happiness for all Animals and Human Beings!
So, why don’t we ALL celebrate responsibly by choosing eco-friendly Ganpati idols and protecting the environment for future generations? 
