This project aims to expand access to clean water for the community of El Pital. While the project will directly benefit around 1,000 people, our hope is that its influence as an example of possibility will reach the entire watershed. In addition to creating new infrastructure which will transport water from a new, protected source to homes in the community, our hope is that the project will eventually work in conjunction with the existing grey water capture, filtration systems, composting toilets, ecological stoves, and education around reforestation.
With support from Engineers Without Borders (UC-Santa Clara) during the years 2011-2013, research and data was collected to inform the early design of the project. This information was used by Duke Engineers for International Development who added their own insight and support in facilitating the topographical study and design of the project.
Between 2015 and 2017, and with the support of Duke Engineers for International Development, the local water advisory board and community members constructed a gray water collection system connected to 50 houses. This system brings used household water through a filtration system before being returned to the adjacent river, reducing water pollution. In addition, the first 5 ecological stoves were installed as part of a pilot program aimed at reducing the amount of firewood needed for the household as well as reducing the amount of smoke - a leading cause of asthma and other respiratory ailments in the region.
The local water advisory board obtained legal status in 2016 and is currently going through the process of establishing a long-term agreement to ensure access to the identified clean and dependable water source around which the project will be designed.
With support from Engineers Without Borders (UC-Santa Clara) during the years 2011-2013, research and data was collected to inform the early design of the project. This information was used by Duke Engineers for International Development who added their own insight and support in facilitating the topographical study and design of the project.
Between 2015 and 2017, and with the support of Duke Engineers for International Development, the local water advisory board and community members constructed a gray water collection system connected to 50 houses. This system brings used household water through a filtration system before being returned to the adjacent river, reducing water pollution. In addition, the first 5 ecological stoves were installed as part of a pilot program aimed at reducing the amount of firewood needed for the household as well as reducing the amount of smoke - a leading cause of asthma and other respiratory ailments in the region.
The local water advisory board obtained legal status in 2016 and is currently going through the process of establishing a long-term agreement to ensure access to the identified clean and dependable water source around which the project will be designed.
