Green Gown Awards 2014 - Research and Development - Queens University Belfast - Winner

Saving millions of lives by enhancing the solar disinfection of water (SODIS)

Over 5.8 million people in about 30 countries utilise the SODIS method, but lack any UV indicator technology, necessary to ensure 100% success. The technology we have developed will provide that technology and so aid established users and enhance the uptake of the SODIS method by the 768 million people that still rely on unimproved water supplies, significantly improving their quality of lives.

Our UV dosimeter labels use inexpensive sustainable materials, contributing little extra cost per SODIS bottle (< 0.1p), making them far cheaper than the currently available, electronic-based technologies. The features of low cost and a striking colour change, which we have achieved, are essential for their successful utilisation in the well-established and growing SODIS technology programme operating in developing countries.

 The key benefits are the simplicity, ease of use and inexpensive nature of the technology and the ability to improve the lives of millions overnight.

Top 3 learnings

1 Identify and engage with potential academic and commercial partners as soon as possible
2 Never lose sight of the goal – sustainability is everything
3 This is just the beginning: the project is not final until the product is onthe market.

What the judges say ...

This innovative application of a visual indicator for solar disinfection has the potential to transform millions of lives. A strong business case underpins the route to market.

What it means to win ...

“This project is a great example of how our expertise and academic research is transforming people’s lives around the world. At Queen’s we are committed to making a real difference to society and winning a Green Gown Award is recognition that we are doing just that.”

Professor Patrick Johnston, President and Vice-Chancellor

Videos

• Saving millions of lives by enhancing the solar disinfection of water (SODIS) (click to hide)