A “natural” solution

As we become more conscious of global warming and climate change due to carbon emissions from burning of fuels, Parsis must realize that a fire temple can also be an unwelcome source of carbon (carbon dioxide) being released into the atmosphere. Even today a fire always burns in Parsi fire temples, creating CO2 emission and thereby promoting undesirable global warming.

Naturally, no one in his right mind would want to suggest discontinuing this beautiful and reverent practice. One would merely want to nullify the ill effects of the carbon emission in as simple a way as possible. Fortunately, this can be done by planting trees in the vicinity of the fire temple (or somewhere else) to absorb carbon dioxide through natural photosynthesis. Growing more trees would convert the fire temple from a carbon emitting activity to a carbon neutral one.

Traditionally, for want of space, fire temples grow a solitary pomegranate tree, but perhaps a few other trees, and more leafy ones, are required to offset carbon emissions from fire.

The world is just beginning to learn of the advantages of carbon neutral activities. People have begun to think in terms of carbon emitting and carbon neutral activities. Parsis have always believed in "natural” solutions with respect for the ecosystem.

SOLI ARCEIVALA

Former chief, Environmental Health

WHO/UN S.E. Asia Region