Zero Waste Wedding: Weddings are among life’s most cherished moments, but what if they could also be kind to the environment? Swetlana D'Costa and Joel Fernandes from Goa turned this idea into reality by hosting a completely eco-friendly and plastic-free wedding, redefining traditional celebrations.

A Confluence of Natural Beauty and Sustainability

On January 5, 2025, at Cavelossim Beach in Goa, this couple not only celebrated their union but also showcased their dedication to environmental sustainability. Their initiative has inspired a fresh perspective on how wedding ceremonies can be both meaningful and eco-friendly.

Paperless Invitations and Plastic-Free Decorations

  • Digital Invitations: To reduce paper waste, the couple sent digital invitations and shared all wedding-related information on a dedicated website.
  • Eco-Friendly Decoration: Jute, wood, and reused flowers were used in the wedding decoration.
  • Boycott of Plastic Bottles: Instead of small plastic water bottles, 20-liter water containers and biodegradable cups were used.

Local and Organic Foods

  • Sustainable Food Packaging: The food served at the wedding was given in packaging made from sugarcane bagasse.
  • Promoting Local Vendors: All food and drink items were purchased from local vendors, which also supported local businesses.

Waste Management and Recycling

  • Waste Segregation: The waste generated during the wedding was divided into nine different categories and recycling was arranged.
  • Compost Making: Leftover food and organic waste were sent for composting.
  • Cigarette Butt Recycling: Special recycling bins were arranged for smoking guests.

Sustainable Wedding Gifts

  • Eco-Friendly Gifts: Guests were gifted jars of locally sourced organic honey instead of plastic trinkets.
  • Special Gift Boxes for Bridesmaids: Which included organic deodorant, lip balm, soap, and moisturizer made by local women.

Initiative to Reduce Carbon Footprint

  • Use of Public Transport: Shuttle buses were arranged for guests attending the wedding, which reduced the number of private vehicles.
  • Gifts as Donations: The couple requested guests to contribute to social causes instead of bringing physical gifts.

Impact on Society and Inspiration

  1. The efforts of this wedding generated approximately 300 kilograms of waste, most of which was reused or converted into compost.
  2. This initiative received tremendous response on social media, and many people were inspired by it and resolved to make their events eco-friendly.

You too can contribute!

If you also want to make your wedding or any other event eco-friendly, then pay attention to these important points:

  • Adopt digital invitations and reduce unnecessary use of paper.
  • Use local and biodegradable materials to reduce waste.
  • Buy from environmentally conscious vendors and prioritize their products.
  • Promote public transport and limit carbon emissions.
  • Plan waste management and ensure recycling.