In developing countries around the world, 14,000 people die every year from contaminated water. We here in the US take clean and pure water for granted, so it’s hard to imagine that something like clean water is not available everywhere.
Many organizations are doing their best to relieve this problem, but purifying water for the masses is a challenging and expensive goal. Additionally, after the water is purified, it needs to be distributed. The only people that would benefit from this action are those that are close enough to take advantage of it.
One solution to this problem is now available. It’s called the Solvatten, it's made in Sweden, and it is a portable water purifier that uses the sun to purify water and ensure it is drinkable.
The Solvatten looks like a couple of classic jerry cans joined together side by side. It opens up in the middle, exposing two poly lenses. A reusable filter in the designated filling aperture has already filtered out the solids, and the sun can get to work, cleaning the three gallons of water held inside.
Technically, boiling water kills pathogens. But the solar power in the Solvatten does not boil the water. It heats the water up to around 140 degrees. The secret to its success is that the lens allows the full spectrum of infra red and ultra violet radiation to penetrate the water inside, which treats and purifies the water. This takes about three or so hours on a sunny day, and around five hours on a cloudy day. Regardless of weather conditions, safe drinking water should always be available.
The best part about this device may be its price. At only $35 dollars each, getting these in the hands of people that need them, particularly in regions where normalized water purification is not possible, now becomes a very viable option. Charitable organizations that are spending huge amounts of funding for clean water can lessen their own burden by supplying Solvattens. Since they can be reused over and over again, cost effectiveness is second to none.
Pilot studies are underway in Nepal, where Solvatten water purifiers are being used in health centers and schools. This is another terrific green idea, and this one quite possibly has a chance to allow clean drinking water to everyone, Because Action speaks louder than words!
For more information about the Solvatten, click here!
