Rainwater Harvesting System: A Green Step Towards Oxalis' Net Zero Journey

3 Benefits of Rainwater Harvesting and Reuse

Reducing groundwater and tap water usage

The rainwater harvesting system at Blue Diamond Camp and Tú Làn Lodge plays a crucial role in reducing the need for groundwater or tap water, helping protect natural water resources. By cutting down on the use of these sources, the system contributes to minimizing the negative impact on ecosystems and preserving local groundwater, ensuring environmental sustainability.

Reducing water costs

At both Blue Diamond Camp and Tú Làn Lodge, recycled rainwater is used for activities like irrigation, cleaning, and daily operations, significantly reducing tap water consumption. The implementation of the rainwater harvesting system at Blue Diamond Camp has resulted in cost savings, supporting its sustainable economic operations. Meanwhile, Tú Làn Lodge, situated on a high slope to avoid floods, only recently received a tap water supply, which does not fully meet the high demand due to its remote location. The rainwater storage system has become a vital solution, ensuring a steady water supply for daily activities.

The rainwater storage system at Tú Làn Lodge ensures a steady water supply for daily operations, even in its remote, high-altitude location.

Action toward net zero goals

The rainwater harvesting system at Blue Diamond Camp and Tú Làn Lodge directly contributes to Oxalis' Net Zero goal by reducing carbon emissions in Scope 2. By using rainwater instead of tap water, Oxalis reduces the energy required for water treatment and transportation, processes that typically generate Scope 2 emissions from non-renewable electricity sources. This solution significantly lowers CO₂ emissions, helping Oxalis move closer to its emissions reduction goals while protecting the environment and nearly addressing climate change.

Structure and operation of Oxalis' rainwater harvesting system

The rainwater harvesting system at Blue Diamond Camp consists of key components: gutters, filters, storage tanks, and rainwater bags. Gutters are installed on the roofs of each camp unit to collect rainwater. Each camp unit is equipped with a rainwater storage bag measuring 2m x 20m, made from specialized waterproof nylon. The collected rainwater passes through a coarse filter to remove impurities before being directed into the storage bag.

The rainwater storage bags are placed in the camping areas at Blue Diamond Camp.

At Tú Làn Lodge, the rainwater harvesting system is designed with gutters on the roofs of each Riverview Bungalow, equipped with filters to remove impurities. After filtration, rainwater is transferred to four 2m³ storage tanks and two 25m³ waterproof storage bags. From there, water is pumped to a 2m³ tank near the treatment system, providing water for laundry and passing through the pre-filter system.

Tu Lan Lodge's rainwater harvesting system is installed on the roof of each Riverview Bungalow.

Sustainability is a top priority in the system's design. Gutters and storage tanks are made from recycled plastic or stainless steel, reducing environmental impact and increasing durability. The choice of recyclable or reusable materials enhances the system's ecological friendliness and contributes to its long-term sustainability.

The water storage tanks and components are made of stainless steel, ensuring long-lasting durability.

To ensure the collected water is safe for domestic use, the system utilizes physical filters that can remove harmful impurities and bacteria. These filters are carefully selected to ensure the water remains clean and safe for irrigation, cleaning, and other activities.

To ensure effective operation under local climate and rainfall conditions, components such as storage tanks and gutters are designed with flexible sizes and shapes. The storage tank capacity can be adjusted according to rainfall levels in the area, ensuring that rainwater is not wasted or overflowing.

Rainwater harvesting bags are placed under the Riverview Bungalow rooms for reuse for internal activities.

Routine maintenance is carried out regularly to maintain the system's efficiency. Components like filters and storage tanks are cleaned periodically, and the piping system is checked and repaired when necessary. This ensures the system operates consistently and efficiently over time.

In adverse weather conditions or during insufficient rainfall, the system has contingency plans to use water from other sources, such as surface water, tap water, or wells. This guarantees stable water supply for daily activities and irrigation at Blue Diamond Camp and Tú Làn Lodge, even during weather changes.

By investing in and operating the rainwater harvesting system, Oxalis not only provides an environmentally friendly solution but also ensures long-term value in protecting valuable water resources. Visitors to Blue Diamond Camp or those staying at Tú Làn Lodge are also encouraged to raise awareness and contribute to environmental protection and sustainable resource use.

The Oxalis Experience.