Bio-Sand Water Filters

We are also very excited about our new water project which is a new technology to Cambodia: bio-sand water filters. The bio-sand filtration systems are easy to construct, install, and maintain. They are an excellent alternative or compliment to pump wells.

The filtration media consists of a layer of gravel, a layer of course sand, and a layer of fine sand. There is a plastic diffuser plate above the water level to avoid disturbing the bio-layer. It is the bio-layer which holds the key bacteria essential to removing biological pathogens and parasites

Water poured through the filter processes at a rate of .6 liters per minute. The filter is made of cement at a total construction cost of approximately $45 per filter including the bio-sand media.

Community stewards are selected to maintain bio-sand filters in each village. They are instructed on proper set-up, maintenance and water sanitation education, and pass this knowledge on to village residents who are using the water filters. It is exciting to see this technology successfully spreading out to the rural areas with the greatest need.