Textile factories in Bangladesh frequently release toxic industrial effluents directly into nearby rivers, canals, and groundwater sources without proper treatment. As a result, the water sources relied upon by surrounding rural communities for drinking, cooking, washing, and bathing become severely contaminated.
Installing water filters and deep tube wells in rural Bangladesh to provide safe drinking water to textile worker communities in areas where industrial effluent has severely contaminated groundwater sources.
THE PROBLEM
THE PROBLEM
This pollution not only threatens the immediate health of these communities—causing waterborne diseases and chronic conditions—but also undermines their livelihoods and ability to work and generate income.
Overview
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Country: Bangladesh
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Partner: Agroho
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SDGs: 3, 5 & 6
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People Benefitting: 67,000+
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No. of Filters: 107
THE IMPACT
In Numbers
107
water filters built
67,000
people benefitting
WHAT WE DO
Our Solutions
To address this, water filter systems – combining biosand filters and deep tube wells – provide free, clean water from a tap 24/7. Prior water testing determines whether a biosand filter alone suffices or if a deep tube well is also needed. As part of our solution, we conduct
- meaningful stakeholder engagement
- regular water quality tests
- training of a water committee and operator
Deep Tube Wells
Deep tube wells access groundwater from aquifers located around 600 feet (180 meters) or more below the surface, naturally protected by impermeable soil layers that block surface pollutants. This provides a safer, more sustainable water source where shallow groundwater is contaminated. The wells use electric submersible or hand pumps based on local electricity availability. With minimal maintenance, these wells typically last 10 to 15 years.
Biosand Filters
Biosand filters, based on a 200-year-old technique, use layers of sand, gravel, activated carbon, and brick chips to remove pathogens and suspended solids through natural biological and physical processes. They require no electricity, operating by gravity, and can treat various local water sources. If shallow groundwater is heavily contaminated, a deep tube well accesses safer, deeper water. With minimal maintenance, these wells typically last at least 10 years.
THE IMAPCT
Qualitatively
Access to safe & clean water
Ensuring reliable 24/7 access to safe and clean water, which strengthens daily well-being and supports a healthier living environment for entire communities.
Improved community health
By reducing exposure to waterborne pathogens and ensuring consistent water quality, overall health conditions improve significantly, lowering the prevalence of preventable illnesses.
Empowerment of women and girls
With the reduced burden of long and often unsafe water collection journeys, women and girls gain time and security, enabling greater participation in education, economic activities, and community life.
Restoration of natural resources
The system contributes to rehabilitating polluted water sources, promoting long-term environmental health and safeguarding vital local ecosystems.
”“We had to fetch water from different places and were often subjected to insults. When relatives or guests visited, it became even more difficult and embarrassing for us. the water from the wells we had at home smelled bad. During the Bangla month of Chaitra-Boishakh (March-April), we often had no water at all. There are around 250 families living here, and we never had a reliable source of safe water. But now, after a piped water supply system was installed, our lives have truly changed. We are finally receiving safe and sufficient water, and we are doing much better.”
Promila Rani Malo (43 Years)Makhulia, Savar, Dhaka
PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT
Water Filter Systems
Bring safe drinking water to your supply chain. Partner with us for quick, measurable impact.
MAILING ADDRESS
Weichselplatz 3
12045 Berlin
OFFICE ADDRESS
Weichselstraße 46
12045 Berlin
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