Global and local recognition for HSBC/IUCN restoration of tank system
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The Kapiriggama tank project.
HSBC and IUCN joined hands in 2012 to restore the Kapiriggama Tank Cascade system under HSBC’s Global Water Programme. Now, almost four years from its commencement this partnership has changed lives of many for the better. It was also recognised at the Best Corporate Citizen Awards hosted by the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce under the ‘Best Project Sustainability Awards 2016’ segment last month. In June this year the same project was named the Winner at the Asia Responsible Entrepreneurship Awards by Enterprise Asia under the Social Empowerment category.
In a media release, HSBC said the project was funded by the bank and mobilised by IUCN in partnership with the Department of Agrarian Development and the local communities. In addition to the funding provided, over 200 volunteers from HSBC were involved with the restoration project.
“The social and ecological impact of the restoration project far outweighs the funding of the project itself. This restored tank cascade system is a unique combination where we simultaneously celebrate the rich heritage of the country and look forward to the promise of a better tomorrow,” noted Mark Prothero, CEO HSBC Sri Lanka and Maldives.
Access to safe water can change the lives of many, HSBC said adding that the communities which are reaping the benefits of the restored Kapiriggama Tank cascade system bear testament to this. The restored tank system directly benefits 600 families in the Kapiriggama cascade and indirectly benefits over 60,000 people with access to safe water for everyday living and livelihood development.
The 3-year and 3-month long restoration project which was handed over to the community also marks an epoch in the revival of Sri Lankan agrarian communities and the rich heritage of local water management, agro-engineering and irrigation. For instance the Kapiriggama cascade recycles water up to six times. The end result is improved quality of life among the surrounding communities who are traditional paddy farmers. The vast knowledge and the experience obtained from the project is documented and made available for replicating in other 457 cascades in the North Central Province. Speaking of the project, Country Representative for IUCN Sri Lanka Dr. Ananda Mallawatantri commented, “The project proved that the tank systems are ‘nature based solutions’ in ancient day sustainable development. Different components of tank systems such as Kattakaduwa (salt absorbing plants) and Gas Gommana (wind breakers) to minimise water evaporation is worth studying more”.