Loy Krathong, the annual festival of light and gratitude, is a treasured tradition in Thailand, bringing communities together to honor the water goddess, Phra Mae Khongkha, and reflect on the passing year. At Koh Jum Beach Villas, we embraced this special occasion with a mindful celebration, balancing the beauty of the tradition with a commitment to sustainability and environmental care.
The History of Loy Krathong
Dating back to the ancient Sukhothai Kingdom, Loy Krathong involves floating delicate krathongs, crafted from natural materials such as banana leaves and flowers, on waterways as an offering of gratitude for water’s essential role in life. It is also a symbolic gesture, allowing participants to let go of negativity and make wishes for the year ahead. Over time, this tradition has evolved to become one of Thailand’s most beloved and visually stunning festivals.
Celebrating Loy Krathong Sustainably at Koh Jum Beach Villas
While many traditional celebrations involve releasing krathongs into rivers or the sea, this practice can inadvertently contribute to pollution, especially when modern materials like foam or synthetic decorations are used. Recognizing this, we celebrated Loy Krathong in a way that was both culturally respectful and environmentally conscious.
During dinner at Driftseed Restaurant, staff and guests were invited to participate in floating fully biodegradable krathongs in our restaurant pond. These krathongs were made from natural materials, ensuring no harm to the environment. It was a quiet and meaningful moment of reflection, accompanied by the soft glow of candlelight.
The Environmental Impact of Loy Krathong
While Loy Krathong is a celebration of gratitude towards nature, it is important to acknowledge the environmental impact the festival can have. Each year, waterways across Thailand are often left with significant amounts of non-biodegradable waste from krathongs made with plastic or foam, posing a threat to marine life and ecosystems. By adopting sustainable practices, we can honor the festival’s essence while reducing its environmental footprint.
How to Celebrate Loy Krathong Sustainably
- Choose Natural Materials: Opt for krathongs made from banana leaves, bread, or other biodegradable materials. Avoid synthetic decorations and materials that could harm wildlife.
- Celebrate Locally: Instead of releasing krathongs into the sea or rivers, consider floating them in small, controlled water bodies like ponds or pools, where they can be collected and composted after use.
- Minimise Waste: Encourage the reuse of materials where possible and avoid unnecessary packaging or waste.
- Educate and Inspire: Share the significance of the festival and its environmental impact with others, encouraging sustainable practices.
A Quiet Reflection on Koh Jum
At Koh Jum Beach Villas, our commitment to sustainability aligns with the values of Loy Krathong. Through mindful celebrations, we aim to honor traditions while preserving the natural beauty of our island.
The simple act of releasing biodegradable krathongs into our pond provided a meaningful way for our guests to connect with this cherished tradition, ensuring no harm was done to the local environment.
Loy Krathong serves as a gentle reminder of the importance of gratitude, reflection, and living in harmony with nature, a message that resonates deeply on our peaceful island.
Loy Krathong reminds us of the importance of gratitude, reflection, and living in harmony with nature, a message that resonates deeply on our tranquil island.
