Ultraviolet disinfection of harvested rainwater for a marginalized rural community

Access to clean water is essential; however, it is becoming increasingly complex due to climate change uncertainties, which affect small, rural, and marginalized communities worldwide, including Indigenous communities within Canada. These communities rely on often-contaminated surface and rainwater sources, making them exceptionally vulnerable to climate change impacts. Microbial growth and unpleasant odors during water storage lead to waterborne diseases, increasing morbidity and mortality. Our objective is to design and evaluate a rainwater harvesting and UV LED disinfection system for a marginalized rural community, piloted at a school in Kenya. This system holds potential for implementation in Indigenous communities in Canada. Research findings will aid scientists, water treatment practitioners, and government agencies in policy- making, and in advocating for clean, green, environmentally friendly, and energy-efficient UV LED systems manufactured in Canada as alternative to chlorine and boiling for water disinfection in Indigenous, and marginalized rural communities worldwide.

Faculty Supervisor:

Sara Beck

Student:

Partner:

MW Technologies;Clear Inc.

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

The University of British Columbia

Program: