Banyu Bening School Manages Rainwater for Consumption, Prevents Disasters and Transforms Them into Blessings

The clean water crisis is not only a grim picture in large cities. Even upstream areas like Sleman, Yogyakarta, have experienced severe droughts and significant water source contamination. This situation raises public concern about the sustainability of clean water access in the future.

Starting from this concern, a unique initiative called Banyu Bening School was established by Sri Wahyuningsih, affectionately known as Bu Ning. Since its inception in 2012, this school has transformed into an educational center for the community to learn how to live in harmony with rain, rather than viewing it as a disaster.

Let’s directly check out the complete story of Bu Ning and Banyu Bening School in processing rainwater into consumable water below!

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1. Applying the 5M Concept for Water Independence

Banyu Bening School (credit: instagram/rezzawxy)

At the Banyu Bening School, everyone is encouraged to achieve water independence through a very simple yet impactful concept, namely 5M. The first step starts with Collecting rainwater, then followed by Processing it to make it safe for consumption.

After processing, the community can directly Drink the clean water without worry. This concept also emphasizes the importance of Saving water reserves in preparation for facing long dry seasons. In this way, the community can become Independent without constantly depleting groundwater, which is becoming increasingly scarce.

2. Traditional and Modern Rainwater Treatment Methods

Banyu Bening School (credit: instagram/rezzawxy)

For many people, drinking rainwater may sound taboo. However, the fact is that this water is very safe if processed correctly. The key is to discard or skip the first rainwater runoff because it usually carries pollutants from the air. The subsequent rainwater should then be filtered, settled, and stored tightly in a closed container.

The processing methods are also very flexible and can be adjusted to needs. Technologically, people can use tools like the Gamma Rain Filter, which can process 1000 to 1500 liters of water at once to make it potable. However, for those who want to save money, a manual method using buckets, funnels, filtering cloths, and gallons is still effective to do at home.

3. The Importance of Women's Role in Water Issues

Banyu Bening School (credit: instagram/rezzawxy)

Mrs. Ning always emphasizes that women have a central role as agents of change in the issue of water availability. This is because water management starts from the smallest scope, namely the kitchen and households. Every small decision made by women at home is very influential on the future quality of water for the next generation.

The main principle taught is to change the perspective on rain. Instead of viewing it as a cause of floods or disasters, rain should be seen as a natural solution that has been wasted. With a little awareness to collect it, we have made a significant contribution to preserving the environment.

4. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is rainwater really safe to drink directly?

Yes, it is very safe as long as you know how to do it. The main requirement is to discard the first rainwater that falls, then filter and settle the subsequent rainwater in a clean and covered place.

What are the steps in the 5M concept?

The 5M concept includes Collecting, Processing, Drinking, Saving, and Being Independent. The goal is for the community to no longer rely excessively on groundwater usage.

What tools are needed to process rainwater manually?

You only need simple tools that are available at home such as buckets, funnels, clean cloths as filters, and a gallon or other closed containers.

Where is Banyu Bening School located and who is its founder?

Banyu Bening School is located in Sleman, Yogyakarta, and was founded by Sri Wahyuningsih (Mrs. Ning).

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(kpl/psp)