Enormous levels of waste are generated with the increasing number of pilgrims visiting a place each day. Pilgrims use polythene bags to buy puja materials.  The waste materials generated are mostly plastic bags and bottles. They pose a threat if left untreated. Volunteers can also guide the pilgrims to drop the containers in appropriate bins.

Many temples take the help of volunteers / residents to keep the premises clean. Groups of people take turns to clean up the temple premises, wash the entire area, as well as utensils, lamps, etc. These group members also look after the temple ponds and clean up the twigs and fallen leaves. This is a service by devotees. Many residents, young and old, involve themselves in the upkeep of several old temples too. This signifies a welcome change in the attitude of the community.

In Vrindavan, cows were dying owing to the enormous accumulation of plastic bags. Hence, a law was passed to prevent shopkeepers from using plastic bags. They were made to replace them with cloth bags to be given to pilgrims. Other cities may also follow this law for the benefit of both pilgrims and livestock in that area.