Project Motivation

Simple wells are prone failure and contamination, and the methods of collecting and transporting water are not necessarily safe, sanitary, or efficient.  The most recent D-Lab trip to Brazil determined that this was a significant problem in the settlements of Tocantins, Brazil.

Technical Description

This is a systems problem with several possible components:

• Learn why the settlements do not use some of the most common technologies
  worldwide (e.g., hand and treadle pumps)
• Develop a water extraction system to provide residents with clean, safe
  water in a more efficient manner.
• Provide a new means of transporting water that is more efficient and
  sanitary
• Develop a means to protect wells from contamination

Community

The settlements are meant for are large (~10 acres) plots of land with one family group (about 5-10 people) living on them.  Most of them grow their own food and raise animals, and do not have outside income.

Escola Canuanã Grupo de Saúde Rural:  The Rural Health student group at the boarding school near the settlements has developed some water collection techniques, and is a good contact to the community.

Project Status

There are some water collection devices in Tocantins, as well as many international models that are not used in the area, however purification is not incorporated into the devices.  The community partners have been working on this problem for a while and are excited to continue working with MIT D-Lab.

Contact(s)

Leo Burd <leob@media.mit.edu>
Stephanie Dalquist <skd@mit.edu>