Case Study: Ceat Tyres - RWH and Water Filtration Projects in Nashik schools

Ceat Tyres helps schools get access to safe and clean drinking water.

Introduction

Ceat Tyres, one of India’s leading tyre manufacturers, has a strong commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR). Among its various CSR initiatives, the focus on providing clean and safe drinking water to school children stands out. To achieve this, Ceat Tyres partnered with rainwater harvesting companies specializing in water sustainability solutions. This case study highlights the collaborative efforts of the rainwater harvesting and water filtration experts along with Ceat Tyres in implementing water sustainability schools across Nashik, Maharashtra.

Background

Nashik, a city known for its agricultural significance, faces challenges related to water scarcity and contamination. Schools in the region often struggle with inadequate access to clean drinking water, which impacts the health and academic performance of students. Recognizing this critical issue, Ceat Tyres decided to address it through their CSR initiatives.

Objectives

The primary objectives of the project were:

1. To ensure a reliable supply of clean and safe drinking water in schools.

2. To educate students and the school community about the importance of water conservation and management.

3. To contribute to the overall well-being and health of the students.

Project Planning and Design

Companies with expertise in water sustainability, undertook a comprehensive assessment of the selected schools in Nashik. The assessment included evaluating the existing water supply systems, water quality, and the potential for rainwater harvesting.

The project was designed to integrate rainwater harvesting systems with advanced water filtration units. The key components of the project included:

• Rainwater Harvesting Systems: Installation of rooftop rainwater harvesting structures to collect and store rainwater. These systems were designed to capture maximum rainwater during the monsoon season.
  

• Water Filtration Units: Implementation of multi-stage filtration systems to ensure the collected rainwater met the standards for safe drinking water. These units included sediment filters, activated carbon filters, and UV purification stages.
  

• Storage Tanks: Installation of storage tanks to hold the filtered water, ensuring a continuous supply throughout the year.
  

Implementation

The implementation phase involved several steps:

1. Infrastructure Development: Installing rainwater harvesting structures on school rooftops. Gutters and downspouts were fitted to channel rainwater into storage tanks.
   

2. Filtration System Installation: Multi-stage filtration units were set up to purify the harvested rainwater. These systems were designed to remove physical, chemical, and biological contaminants, providing safe drinking water.
   

3. Training and Awareness Programs: Workshops and training sessions were conducted for students, teachers, and school staff. These programs aimed to educate the school community about the importance of water conservation, the functioning of the installed systems, and basic maintenance practices.
   

4. Monitoring and Maintenance: Establish a regular monitoring and maintenance schedule to ensure the systems operated efficiently. This included periodic water quality testing and system check-ups.
   

Outcomes and Impact

The project resulted in significant positive outcomes:

• Improved Access to Clean Water: Over 5,000 students across multiple schools in Nashik gained access to safe and clean drinking water.
  

• Health Benefits: The availability of purified water reduced the incidence of waterborne diseases among students.
  

• Increased Awareness: The training programs heightened awareness about water conservation and management within the school communities.
  

• Sustainable Water Management: The rainwater harvesting systems ensured a sustainable and reliable source of water, reducing dependency on external water supplies.
  

Conclusion

The outstanding efforts of Ceat Tyres in implementing rainwater harvesting and water filtration projects in Nashik schools exemplify a successful CSR initiative. By addressing the critical issue of clean drinking water, this project not only improved the health and well-being of students but also fostered a culture of water sustainability and conservation. This case study underscores the importance of strategic partnerships in achieving impactful CSR goals and highlights the potential of innovative solutions in addressing pressing community needs.

Disclaimer: The project was not executed by SWR Technology, but by RWH and water filtration experts who are now on-board SWR Technology as part of its expert advisory team. These experts are now responsible for the planning, designing and implementing of rainwater harvesting and water filtration projects all over India.