The group named TETRA’ For their innovative solution to solve safe water problems in coastal areas won the first ever Safe Water Challenge 2018, organized jointly by UNDP Bangladesh and Pureit of Unilever on 22 May 2018 at UNDP Bangladesh county office.
The winner proposed team introduces a device named ‘Atoshi’ which simultaneously can desalinate and purify water. This device can produce 8-10 Liters of drinking water per day on an average which is ample for a small family. it is developed with the locally available materials, it is environmentally friendly, and it can be produced at a low cost and sold at an affordable price in rural communities. To execute the idea, the winner received BDT 5 Lac.
Earlier in February, UNDP and Pureit of Unilever made a partnership to provide pure water to commoners in order to achieve Sustainable Development Goal-6, Clean Water and Sanitation. As part of the initiative, UNDP and Pureit, jointly launched the first ever “Safe Water Challenge” on finding solutions to safe water challenges in rural areas of Bangladesh.
Among 130 entries, 10 were selected for their proposals on Equitable access to safe drinking water, Sustainable business model for safely managed drinking water service and Innovative technology to improve water quality by reducing pollution. The top 10 finalists presented their ideas on 22 May, before a jury board comprised of experts from different sectors.
Attending the award giving ceremony, Shaila Khan, Acting Country Director of UNDP Bangladesh, said “At UNDP we believe that the SDGs represent a unique opportunity for big corporates to look at new markets and new technologies. Safe Water Challenge is one such approach to generate ideas for entrepreneurs linked directly with the demand of big corporates. This unique partnership with Unilever will encourage other private organizations to come forward and be a part of the journey of 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.”
Tanzeen Ferdous Alam, Marketing Director of Home Care, Unilever said, “We are committed to eradicate water-borne diseases for the people of Bangladesh by providing the solutions of safe drinking water and help all the relevant stakeholders to achieve Sustainable Development Goals by 2030”.
The winner of the challenge will work closely with UNDP and Unilever to implement the plan and establish a business model for safe water.
