Sustainable Water Management | Shizuka Water Harvesting Project

A Lifeline for the Community

In the heart of Thailand’s Ratchaburi Province lies Anghin Village, a region characterized by its rugged mountains and rich agricultural land. This village is not just a remote area; it is a crucial lifeline for the local community and an integral part of Thailand’s economy. Nestled in rocky hills, Anghin Village plays a pivotal role as an agricultural hub, supplying essential fruits and vegetables to markets nationwide. Moreover, its mountains are a valuable source of construction materials, including hard stones and soil, which are essential for national infrastructure projects like highways.

The Ongoing Battle with Water Scarcity

Despite its vital contributions, Anghin Village faces significant environmental challenges, particularly due to its harsh terrain. Water scarcity is a persistent issue in this region, with surface water being almost nonexistent and deep wells often running dry. The community’s reliance on seasonal rains makes their livelihoods precarious, as they are vulnerable to the unpredictable climate.

This vulnerability was exposed during the drought that stretched from December 2022 to October 2023. The drought was particularly severe, with annual rainfall plummeting to just 870mm, leaving the village’s natural water reservoirs nearly dry. In the midst of this crisis, Shizuka Co. Ltd., an activated carbon manufacturing facility operated by Haycarb, recognized the urgent need for a sustainable solution. To combat the water scarcity and secure a future for its operations, Shizuka undertook a rainwater harvesting project – a testament to innovation, resilience and a deep commitment to environmental stewardship. This initiative not only addressed the immediate water crisis but also set the stage for sustainable water management in the region, ensuring the continued viability of both the village and the company’s operations.

Re-engineering for the Future

The existing infrastructure was not enough to cope with the new reality, and so, with a keen focus on maximizing rainwater collection, the company made critical modifications. The southern inlet of the reservoir was redesigned with one-meter diameter concrete cylinders, repositioned at a lower elevation to capture more water even from minimal rainfall. Similarly, the northern canal, which carries water from the nearby mountains, was slightly redirected to facilitate a new inlet with proper control mechanisms, ensuring efficient water management without disturbing the local community.

A key component of this overhaul was the construction of a new reservoir, aptly named the “Free Form Lake.” This L-shaped reservoir, strategically located near the factory, added an impressive 52,000 cubic meters of water storage capacity. Not only did this reservoir serve as a critical resource for emergencies and production needs during future droughts, but it also blended seamlessly with the environment, preserving the ecosystem while enhancing the factory’s operational resilience.

Turning Challenges into Opportunities

Shizuka’s rainwater harvesting project wasn’t just about survival, it was also about making the most of available resources. The soil excavated during the construction of the Free Form Lake was repurposed to expand the charcoal storage area at the factory, increasing storage capacity from 3,000 to 8,000 metric tons. This strategic use of resources not only underlined Shizuka’s commitment to sustainability but also demonstrated the company’s ability to turn challenges into opportunities.

A Tranquil Retreat

Beyond its practical benefits, the project also introduced a space for reflection and relaxation – a natural hut made from pine trees. This humble retreat offers a tranquil environment for the team at Shizuka, providing a cool and misty haven away from the demands of their work. It is a testament to the project’s holistic approach, ensuring that while the company thrives, so too does the well-being of its people.

A Tranquil Retreat

A Legacy of Sustainability

The rainwater harvesting project at Shizuka Co. Ltd. is more than just an engineering success; it is a story of resilience, innovation and an unwavering commitment to sustainability. With a total water storage capacity of 164,200 cubic meters, the company has secured its operations for more than 2.5 years, regardless of future droughts. By embracing the challenges posed by a harsh environment, Shizuka has not only ensured its own survival but has set a precedent for sustainable practices in the industry. This project exemplifies what can be accomplished when ingenuity combines with determination, and it serves as an inspiration for others confronting similar challenges in a rapidly evolving world.