38. The Role of Sustainability in the Development of Hydropower Facility Candee Kevin I. (Proceedings, Hydro 2003, Vol. I, Croatia, pp. 2326). Abstract The projects presented in this paper, both represented the best available technology for their given situations. The project promoters addressed sustainability issues from the earliest days of the development process. The project promoters listened carefully to the needs of local community, including understanding of their value system, their customs, and desires, and worked relentlessly to gain the trust of all of the members of the local community. A number of conclusions can be reached from these examples. First and foremost is to not undervalue the need for local support and the issues of sustainability. A second, however is that by listening to the local communities needs, we have learned that they do not always require large expenditures of capital, but rather hands on assistance to improve the quality of life for their residents. Local villagers generally do not place a high value on material goods, and are willing to work side-by-side with developers, who show an appreciation for local culture, to make concrete improvements to the life of their residents. Many if not most remote villages face flight of their young people to the large cities, as the young feel that there is more promise in the cities. Small but concrete improvements in a remote village, providing both short-term and long-term benefits can help reduce that tide. Lastly, but what is meant as the outcome of this presentation, more than just two nice stories, is the concept of hydropower being truly beneficial to mankind if developed taking into account all issues of sustainability. No development is perfect, but what is often referred to as the business as usual case is no longer an acceptable option. Developers, project promoters and investors must actively engage stakeholders to minimise any negative effects of development. Top Keywords Available technology, Project promoters, Sustainability issues, Customs, Desires, Members of the local community, Listening, Communities needs, Capital, Quality of life, Hydropower. Top |