In 1999, Nestlé India initiated a project to provide clean drinking water facilities in village schools neighbouring the Company's factories. Widely, the aim is to create awareness in the community about water issues and involve them in improving the water situation. In India, communities in villages are largely dependent on ground water for their daily needs. Availability of clean drinking water is a major concern for many, with 200 million people who do not have access to it.
In line with our global commitment to the United Nations Millenium Development Goal no 7 to ensure environmental sustainability, Nestlé India is committed to improving the situation and believes that the first step is to create awareness in the communities.
After identifying schools where the village community is able to take joint ownership, Nestlé India has invested in the drilling of deep bore wells and in the construction of water tanks that store the clean water, allowing the school children regular access to clean drinking water. 71 projects, directly benefiting over 27,000 school children have already been completed.
The project also includes an education component that teaches students about the importance of clean water, the need for water conservation and the link between clean water, hygiene, health and wellness.
Over 17'000 students have been taught basics on water resources, the water cycle, pollution, conservation and water scarcity. These training programmes are conducted by dedicated teams who use posters, practical demonstrations and interactive dialogues.
This initiative serves to sensitise Indian society for long term sustainability of water resources. It will also provide future farmers with good knowledge on water to help them optimise water usage during their farming activities.
“Now our children come home and explain to us how to make proper use of water, for example while brushing teeth one should use a cup of water rather than letting water taps flow freely. This will lead to proper water management in the village community.”
Sukhminder Singh, Farmer, Bhoondri – State of Punjab
In June 2005, Nestlé India’s factory in Punjab was awarded the Punjab Government’s award for “Environmental Excellence” in recognition of its efforts in the construction of these clean drinking water facilities.