American Express, in collaboration with Safe Water Network, has introduced Program Vasundhara, a three-year initiative aimed at fostering environmental sustainability, biodiversity conservation, and climate resilience in Bengaluru and Gurugram. This comprehensive program aligns with India’s climate and sustainability goals, focusing on empowering local communities, restoring ecosystems, and encouraging sustainable practices.
Key Regional Impacts
Bengaluru
- Around Aivarakhandapura Lake, an 18-million-liter rainwater harvesting structure is being constructed to improve water availability and reduce reliance on external sources.
- Local farmers benefit from an automated weather station linked to a mobile app that delivers hyperlocal weather insights. Powered by AI, the app assists with crop management, pest control, and preparation for extreme weather.
Gurugram
- In the Aravalli region, the initiative includes planting 15,000 trees and restoring 10,000 hectares of land. These efforts aim to enhance green cover, boost biodiversity, and strengthen climate resilience.
- Solar-powered solutions in public spaces will reduce carbon emissions and promote renewable energy adoption.
Empowering Communities and Promoting Sustainable Livelihoods
Program Vasundhara places significant emphasis on empowering local communities through:
- Training nearly 1,000 women from 85 villages to establish small and micro-enterprises in agriculture and conservation.
- Supporting self-help groups (SHGs) in cultivating and marketing medicinal plants and other agricultural products.
- Facilitating connections with government schemes, banks, and cooperatives for financial assistance.
Poonam Sewak, Vice President of Programs and Partnerships at Safe Water Network – “We are honored to lead Program Vasundhara with American Express, an initiative rooted in community participation and ecological restoration. This program illustrates the profound impact of local engagement in conserving and rejuvenating vital ecosystems. Together, we’re building pathways for sustainable livelihoods and environmental stewardship that will benefit generations.”
Additional Features of Program Vasundhara
- Ecosystem Restoration: Enhancing urban and peri-urban ecosystems, including food systems, water sources, and medicinal plants.
- Climate Action: Reducing climate vulnerability through adaptive measures and energy-efficient solutions.
- Community Engagement: Fostering livelihood-based eco-restoration efforts, particularly for women.
- Capacity Building: Offering technical training to local stakeholders for sustainable conservation practices.
- Knowledge Sharing: Showcasing the program as a model for biodiversity efforts supported by corporations on national and global platforms.
Corporate and Environmental Commitments
Sanjay Khanna, CEO and Country Manager, American Express India, reiterated the company’s dedication to creating positive environmental and community impacts. “At American Express, we are committed to creating a positive impact on communities and the environment. Program Vasundhara exemplifies our dedication to climate resilience and sustainable ecosystems in Bengaluru and Gurugram. Through this partnership with Safe Water Network, we are not only addressing current environmental challenges in parts of India but also paving the way for a greener future.”
Madge Thomas, Head of Corporate Sustainability at American Express – “Program Vasundhara is about making environmental progress to address the pressing water crisis through local engagement and education. By partnering with Safe Water Network, we’re ensuring that communities gain the tools and support to protect and nurture their natural environments. It’s a significant collaboration that aligns with our commitment building resilient communities that are empowered to respond to extreme weather and natural disasters.”
This initiative reflects India’s climate goals and aligns with Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment), serving as a powerful example of community-driven conservation.
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