Safe water with the BAR filtration system for Africa

Aqua free colleagues from the Netherlands and Belgium have been actively involved for some time in an innovative initiative in Africa, which aims to supply the local population with safe drinking water.

A multi-stage filter system in suitcase size

At the heart of the project is the BAR water treatment system from Element15 from the Netherlands, which can provide safe water. No external energy source is required for operation; filtration takes place via a manual pump that generates the necessary pressure for the water to flow through the filter.

For the Safe Water Project Tanzania, the current plan is that over 50 installed BARs will supply more than 9,000 people daily with safe water.

How the BAR water treatment system works

BAR Element 15 is a portable system in suitcase size, consisting of a multi-stage filter system comprising a pre-filter, activated carbon and membrane. It can be used in addition to an existing water extraction point, e.g. the water inlet in a house or a water tank, or it can create a new water extraction point in combination with a hand pump.

The advantages of the system:

• Effective filtration: Removes bacteria, viruses, parasites and heavy metals.
• Fluoride reduction: A special charcoal filter (Bone Charcoal) ensures safe drinking water.
• High capacity: The flow rate is determined by the Micro 10 and is 2,000 litres per hour.
• Energy independence: Works without electricity.

The BAR filter suitcase in action

The following video shows a demonstration of the BAR filter suitcase in Ghana.

How the collaboration came about

The collaboration with Element15 began when the founder, Ingmar, became aware of Aqua free while looking for a suitable filtration solution.

After an initial discussion, it quickly became clear that this project offered a great opportunity to create a sustainable solution for safe drinking water.

Thus, we developed the filter together and adapted it to local requirements.

Positive feedback from the local community

The local people are very satisfied: they can drink the purified water without hesitation. Demand is high, and the filter is already being used successfully.

In Ghana, the partners of Element15 operate the system and ensure that it is available throughout the day.

Ingmar from Element15 is already in discussions with government authorities to expand the project further while supporting the implementation of additional filtration measures.

A project with sustainable impact

We are delighted to make our contribution with our filter membrane and its further development for the demands of the project, and we are keeping our fingers crossed for this great project!

How exactly does it work?

The Aqua free membrane in action: