Kolkata’s Green Mall aims to reverse global warming

KOLKATA - Green is in, and a mall has come up in Kolkata to further the cause of the Green brigade.

Nine kilometres outside the West Bengal capital, the Green Mall is the brainchild of Dinesh Rawat, who started the project in 2002.

Spread over 25 acres, these botanical gardens are an oasis of all things flora.

Most scientists agree that growing trees and plants can curb global warming because they absorb carbon dioxide present in the atmosphere.

Aspiring to play a role in the fight against climate change, Rawat decided to turn to Mother Nature herself.

“I started working on this problem when people in India were not aware of what is global warming. I was concerned about it,” Rawat said.

With over 250 varieties of trees, thousands of plants and flowers and a meditation centre, the Green Mall has become increasingly popular among nature lovers.

Rawat believes that individuals should make their own efforts towards reducing global warming rather than relying on the government.

“Now people have become quite aware, there’s no doubt about it. And people have come to realise this problem is a very serious problem. Government or institutions or organisations, practically, they will not be able to do a lot,” Rawat said.

Rawat’s next move is to export his plants and trees to the rest of the world.

Indian clients ranging from housewives to landscapers buy plants from the Green Mall.

Scientists believe a single tree will absorb approximately one tonne of carbon dioxide during its lifetime. By Ajitha Menon (ANI)