Using the power of the sun to treat water, is both practical and affordable. The solar disinfection process (SODIS), uses readily available bottles and exposure to the sun to kill many of the pathogens that cause water-borne illnesses. Placing a bottle of water in full sun for six hours is all that is needed to reduce the incidence of diarrhea from 30 to 80 percent.

IRD is promoting SODIS programs in three different countries: Laos, Mozambique, and Sri Lanka. In each country, IRD works with local institutions such as schools and health clinics to spread the word about SODIS, often using the large zinc roofs as racks for water treatment. In some cases, IRD has also installed rooftop rainfall collection systems to ensure year-round water availability. Trained volunteers visit families to help them understand and consistently use the technique.

In addition, IRD develops locally appropriate promotional materials to increase the general awareness of the importance of clean water and SODIS at local health facilities and among other organizations. In this way, the programs can continue and be sustainable after IRD’s involvement has ended. Each of these very low-cost projects benefits thousands of individuals, keeping them and their families healthy. IRD is a non-profit humanitarian and development organization dedicated to improving the lives and livelihoods of the world’s most vulnerable people. With the help of local groups and donors, IRD builds sustainable, community-based programs for health, agriculture, economic growth, infrastructure, and governance. IRD works in nearly 40 countries and specializes in conflict and post-conflict environments.