It’s remarkable how simple the idea is: This paper sheet filters contaminated water to make it drinkable. The paper contains nanoparticles of silver or copper which kill bacteria in the water as it passes through, and is proving to be full of potential for communities in developing countries who don’t have access to clean water. In trials at 25 contaminated water sources in South Africa, Ghana and Bangladesh, the paper successfully removed more than 99% of bacteria. The safety level of the water after filtering it was equal to that of the North American tap water. According to the World Health Organization, 750 million people around the world lack access to safe water. A “drinkable book” full of these paper sheets could provide them with a cheap and easy solution for filtering water from nearby rivers and streams.
Turning the page for contaminated water: These book pages work as a filter
More of Today's Solutions
Berlin’s REWE supermarket: the grocery store with a working rooftop farm
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM The lettuce in REWE's Lankwitz store in Berlin has had a short morning. Grown on the rooftop farm ...
Read More3 Functional foods for all-day energy
You have a busy life, and now that the weather is nicer and Covid-19 restrictions are loosening up, you will likely find yourself with ...
Read MoreBritain becomes the first G7 nation to end coal power
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Britain became the first G7 country to formally eliminate coal-fired power generation last Monday, when it closed its ...
Read MoreBlood test for endometriosis brings hope for millions
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM This year’s top Health stories celebrate the kind of progress that hits close to home: advances that help ...
Read More
