Case Study: Bisleri - RWH projects at its factory and schools

Learn how Bisleri achieved its water sustainability goals through rainwater harvesting.

Introduction

Bisleri, one of India's leading packaged water companies, is renowned not only for its high-quality products but also for its commitment to sustainable and environmentally friendly practices. As part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, Bisleri has undertaken significant projects aimed at groundwater recharge and water sustainability. To achieve these goals, Bisleri partnered with specialists in water resource management, to plan, design, and implement comprehensive rainwater harvesting and groundwater recharge projects.

Project Objectives

The primary objectives of the rainwater harvesting project were:

1. To enhance groundwater levels around Bisleri’s manufacturing units.

2. To provide clean and safe drinking water to schools through water filtration systems.

3. To promote sustainable water management practices in local communities.

Planning and Design

The project began with a detailed site assessment of Bisleri’s factories and selected schools. The assessments included analyzing rainfall patterns, soil types, and existing water infrastructure to determine the most effective rainwater harvesting methods. The design phase focused on creating tailored solutions for each location to maximize water collection and recharge potential.

Implementation at Bisleri Factories

At Bisleri’s factories, several key strategies were implemented:

1. Construction of Recharge Wells: Deep recharge wells were constructed to direct collected rainwater into underground aquifers. These wells were strategically placed to maximize infiltration and groundwater recharge.
   

2. Installation of Percolation Pits: Percolation pits were designed to capture surface runoff. These pits allow water to percolate into the soil, reducing surface water loss and promoting groundwater recharge.
   

3. Rainwater Harvesting Systems: Comprehensive systems were installed on rooftops and other catchment areas to collect and channel rainwater into storage tanks or directly into recharge wells. These systems were designed to handle the high volumes of water typical during monsoon seasons.
   

School Water Filtration Projects

In addition to the factory-based initiatives, water sustainability solutions were also implemented in local schools by Bisleri. The focus here was twofold:

1. Rainwater Harvesting: Similar to the factories, rainwater harvesting systems were installed to collect and store rainwater for non-potable uses, such as toilet flushing and gardening. This initiative aimed to reduce the dependency on municipal water supplies and enhance water sustainability in schools.
   

2. Water Filtration Systems: Advanced water filtration systems were installed to ensure that students had access to clean and safe drinking water. These systems included multiple stages of filtration to remove impurities and pathogens, providing a reliable source of potable water.
   

Outcomes and Impact

The rainwater harvesting and groundwater recharge projects have yielded significant positive outcomes:

1. Increased Groundwater Levels: The recharge wells and percolation pits have significantly improved groundwater levels in the areas surrounding Bisleri’s factories. This has not only benefited the company but also the local communities that rely on groundwater for their daily needs.
   

2. Water Availability in Schools: The installation of water filtration systems in schools has ensured a consistent supply of safe drinking water, improving the health and well-being of students. Moreover, rainwater harvesting systems have helped schools manage water resources more efficiently.
   

3. Community Awareness: The projects have raised awareness about the importance of water conservation and sustainable practices among local communities and students. This has fostered a culture of environmental stewardship and responsibility.
   

Conclusion

Bisleri’s initiative exemplifies how corporate entities can effectively collaborate with experts to achieve their sustainability goals. Through meticulous planning, innovative design, and diligent implementation, the rainwater harvesting project has not only enhanced water sustainability at Bisleri’s facilities but also contributed to the well-being of local communities and schools. This case study highlights the potential for impactful environmental initiatives that benefit both businesses and society at large.

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.