Project execution: 2022
Around 2 billion people worldwide have no access to clean drinking water. In many parts of the world, water must be fetched from distant springs or wells. The water is then stored in unsuitable and difficult-to-clean containers. Dirty containers and unclean caps contaminate the water and pose a health risk. Moreover, many women, who are mainly responsible for carrying water, damage their health as a result of carrying heavy containers.
The transdisciplinary research project between Eawag, ZHdK and Fischer Söhne AG aims to develop a robust, reliable and affordable solution for the easy and hygienic transportation and storage of drinking water. This should reduce the risk of recontamination and ensure the ergonomic transportation of containers. The aim is to develop an easy-to-make drinking water container able to cover a family’s daily water supply (approx. 20 litres).
The development is innovative thanks to the container’s usability, design, cultural embedding and safe usage. ZHdK contributes proven expertise and its long-standing experience in user-centred design and construction to the project.
In 2023, a field trial will be carried out in Uganda and Gambia with 340 existing water containers provided by Fischer Söhne AG. The field test aims to establish whether the initiative will be pursued on a larger scale as a research and development project. EAWAG will coordinate the field tests and provide scientific support, while Fischer Söhne AG will supply the water tanks. ZHdK will re-engage in the project once the containers need to be designed.
(Image: EAWAG)