The environmental impact of a pookalam depends largely on the materials mixed with its flowers. Fresh petals and leaves can be composted after use. Plastic glitter, synthetic colour, foam shapes and metallic decorations complicate disposal and can contaminate organic waste.

Kerala’s Green Protocol, promoted by the Suchitwa Mission, encourages public events and festivals to reduce disposable materials and replace non-biodegradable products with reusable or natural alternatives. For Onam celebrations, this means keeping plastic out of floral displays, separating waste and sending flowers for composting wherever facilities are available.

Once Thiruvonam ends, the petals are swept up and the floor is cleared. The farms enter their next planting cycle, traders settle their accounts and growers assess whether the season rewarded their work. The pookalam disappears from view. Its value continues through the households and communities that earned an income from every kilogram of flowers.

Behind every colourful Onam pookalam in the UAE is a fast-moving supply chain stretching across borders. With local demand for traditional flowers surging ahead of the festival, traders source large volumes from flower-growing centres in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Marigolds, jasmine, chrysanthemums and other blooms are harvested, sorted and packed before being transported to airports for overnight flights to the UAE. Oman provides another regional supply route, supplementing Indian imports during peak demand. Once consignments clear customs, wholesalers quickly distribute the highly perishable cargo to markets and retailers, ensuring flowers reach customers fresh and ready for Onam celebrations and elaborate pookalams.