SciDev.Net

Drinking water purified by the SODIS system

SODIS

Plastic bottles could provide the cheapest and most practical way of preventing water-borne diseases in regions affected by the recent tsunami, say Swiss scientists.

Solar water disinfection — or SODIS — relies on radiation and heat from the sun to kill most bacteria and viruses in the water. All people need to do, say the researchers, is fill a clear plastic bottle with water, shake it, and leave it in the sun for at least six hours.

The main problem, they say, is convincing individuals and organisations that such a simple method could be effective. They would need to recruit the help of local partners to help promote the method to those living in affected areas.