What is AGUASMART?
AGUASMART is an ecological drinking water unit designed for seawater, brackish water, and groundwater. It offers an innovative solution for providing drinking water and cold storage in isolated areas without conventional energy sources. In a world where drinking water, clean energy, and waste management are all urgent challenges, AGUASMART emerges as a game-changer on the global stage. With water representing 75% of the Earth’s surface and being a critical component in all living organisms (75% of human bodies are water too…), every human being, regardless of their location or socioeconomic status, deserves safe drinking water every day.
Main Benefits
Key figures and facts highlight the transformative impact of AGUASMART:
- 8 billion inhabitants need at least 1 liter of drinking water daily.
- AGUASMART’s ecological water purification system treats all types of water sources including seawater, brackish water, and surface water.
- Water production capacity ranges from 180 m³/day for surface water (TDS < 1,000 mg/L) to 25 m³/day for brackish water (TDS < 6,000 mg/L) and 20 m³/day for seawater (TDS < 45,000 mg/L).
- The system is powered entirely by clean, daily, and free solar energy, ensuring zero carbon pollution.
- More than 500 sites in Africa are targeted for installation within 5 years with an estimated ROI of 8% to 12% net per year.
Eco-Friendly Innovation and Water Purification
At a time when ecological responsibility is a key social, political, and economic driver, AGUASMART stands out by providing a complete, autonomous solution for drinking water distribution in areas with limited access to energy. The system leverages proven purification methods such as ultrafiltration and reverse osmosis, ensuring that every liter produced complies with WHO recommendations. Whether the water comes from a seawater inlet, a brackish source, or even deep underground, the technology adapts to treat and purify it efficiently. The project’s strategic partnerships and recognized labels, including the “Innovation” label from BPI and UN registration, echo its certainty as a robust solution for isolated regions.
Renewable Energy in Action
AGUASMART units are powered by solar panels – a choice that not only makes them eco-friendly but also ensures total operational autonomy in areas without electricity. It is interesting to note that while fossil energies contribute dozens of tons of CO2 every day, AGUASMART proudly maintains a zero-carbon footprint. These well-maintained solar panels, using European components and simple, robust mechanical parts, operate reliably long beyond their warranty periods and are now 95% recyclable. The absence of complex electronics and chemicals means maintenance is straightforward and manageable even in remote regions. The use of clean solar energy is a natural fit for populations in Africa, Asia, and South America.
Breakthrough in Sustainable Refrigeration
Not limited to water production, AGUASMART has widened its horizon by addressing food preservation challenges in areas where energy remains scarce. The Solar Froz-Box is an autonomous refrigeration container that uses solar energy to properly preserve meat, fish, vegetables, fruits, and milk. With over $4 billion worth of food wasted annually in Africa alone, this solution is not just about keeping water safe but also about protecting valuable food supplies. Designed to maintain products under ideal conditions, the refrigeration units boast capacities ranging from 12 m³ to 30 m³. This addition to the project underlines the commitment to sustainability, ensuring both healthy water and well-preserved food in isolated communities.
Innovative Ice Production and Packaging Solutions
Innovation continues with the Ice Blue Box, a container specifically designed for producing ice blocks in sizes of 5 kg, 10 kg, and 20 kg, with production capabilities up to 20 tons per day using electricity or fuel. This ice production facility enhances the overall ecosystem by supporting diverse market needs. Furthermore, the project offers options such as a solar feed pump, agro-food storage tanks, and even packaging machines that use biodegradable bags (0.33 L to 0.50 L). In addition, refillable bottles ranging from 10 L to 20 L and Bag in Box (BiB) systems (3 L and 5 L) are available, catering to the versatile consumption and storage habits of local populations. This integrated approach makes the project not just a water purifying unit but a broader ecological solution.
Project Impact on Sustainable Development Goals
- SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
A Bright Future for Isolated Communities
The AGUASMART initiative represents more than just an engineering marvel; it is a lifeline for millions living on the fringes of urban infrastructure. In several parts of Africa, Asia, and South America, where energy supplies are irregular or completely absent, the availability of clean and safe drinking water is not merely a convenience but a critical necessity. Training programs lasting only 48 to 72 hours empower local managers to oversee the operations, creating both direct and indirect job opportunities while fostering community resilience. With installations housed in standard 20-foot containers and requiring minimal infrastructure (a simple concrete slab), these units can be quickly deployed, commissioned, and maintained. The dynamic nature of this project, combined with its environmentally responsible approach, offers isolated communities not just water but a chance at a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle. It is an inspiring blend of ecological responsibility and practical engineering—helping bridge the gap between modern technology and age-old necessities.
