NEWS – American Express Launches ‘Program Vasundhara’ for Environmental Sustainability

HIGHLIGHTS

• Announced by American Express in partnership with Safe Water Network.
• Duration: Three-year initiative.
• Focus: Promoting environmental sustainability, biodiversity conservation, and climate resilience in Bengaluru and Gurugram.
• Goal: Support India’s climate and sustainability goals by empowering communities, restoring ecosystems, and fostering sustainable development.

PROGRAM VISION AND REGIONAL IMPACT

Bengaluru

• Rainwater Harvesting: Construction of an 18-million-liter rainwater harvesting structure at Aivarakhandapura Lake.
  • Purpose: Boost local water availability, reduce reliance on external sources, and foster community resilience.
• Weather Insights for Farmers:
  • Automated Weather Station: Provides hyperlocal weather updates via a mobile app.
  • AI Technology: Guides farmers on crop management, pest control, and disease prevention.

Gurugram

• Reforestation and Land Restoration:
  • Aravalli Region: Planting 15,000 trees and restoring 10,000 hectares.
  • Outcome: Increased green cover, enhanced biodiversity, and strengthened climate resilience.
• Solar Solutions: Implementation in public areas to reduce carbon emissions.
• Corporate Sustainability Perspective:
  • Madge Thomas, Head of Corporate Sustainability, highlighted addressing the water crisis through local engagement and education.

COMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

• Focus on Women Entrepreneurs:
  • Nearly 1,000 women from 85 villages will receive training and resources.
  • Enterprises: Focus on agriculture and conservation (e.g., medicinal plants).
  • Support: Connection with government schemes, banks, and cooperatives.
• Safe Water Network Insights:
  • Poonam Sewak, VP of Programs, emphasized the role of local engagement and ecological restoration in building sustainable livelihoods.

KEY FEATURES OF PROGRAM VASUNDHARA

1. Ecosystem Restoration:
   • Focus on urban and peri-urban regions.
   • Enhance local food systems, water sources, and medicinal plant conservation.
2. Climate Action:
   • Adaptive measures to reduce climate vulnerability.
   • Incorporation of energy-efficient and renewable energy solutions.
3. Community Engagement:
   • Livelihood-based eco-restoration for sustainable income opportunities.
4. Capacity Building:
   • Technical training for stakeholders to ensure long-term conservation practices.
5. Knowledge Management and Awareness:
   • Positioning the program as a model for corporate-supported biodiversity initiatives.