The Kapaleeswarar Temple in Mylapore, Chennai, has taken a pioneering step in sustainable waste management through its Green Temple initiative. This project focuses on converting the temple’s organic waste into useful resources, primarily through composting and biogas generation.
Each day, the temple produces about 500 kilograms of organic waste. This includes around 400 kilograms of cow dung from the temple’s cows and 100 kilograms of biodegradable waste, such as flowers and other offerings. Instead of disposing of this waste, the temple has implemented two biogas plants and a bio-composting unit to manage it effectively.
The two biogas plants are capable of producing 6 cubic meters of biogas daily. This biogas is then utilized in the temple’s kitchen for cooking, reducing the need for conventional fuel sources and cutting down on greenhouse gas emissions. The bio-composter, with a capacity to process 250 kilograms of organic waste per day, converts waste into nutrient-rich compost. This compost is used within the temple gardens and also sold, generating additional revenue.
This approach not only helps in managing waste sustainably but also contributes to the temple’s self-sufficiency. By converting waste into energy and fertilizer, the Kapaleeswarar Temple reduces its environmental impact and serves as a model for other religious institutions and communities.
In conclusion, the Green Temple initiative at Kapaleeswarar Temple showcases how traditional spaces can adopt modern waste management techniques. Through composting and biogas generation, the temple efficiently manages its waste, supports sustainable practices, and inspires similar efforts across the region.
