Malawi Chlorine Dispensers. Improving family health with safe drinking water

Evidence Action installed more than 3,500 chlorine dispensers in rural Malawi. All dispensers are included under the IWPP and generate CERs for the Swiss Climate Cent Foundation. Chlorine Dispenser System The Chlorine Dispenser System consists of the dispenser hardware, community education, and a regular supply of chlorine. The plastic dispenser is fitted with a valve which consistently delivers a precise 3 ml dose of chlorine (sodium hypochlorite solution). To use the dispenser, community members go to their water source, place their bucket or jerrican under the dispenser, turn the valve to dispense the correct amount of chlorine, and then fill the bucket as they normally would with water from the source. Evidence Action educates the community about the dangers of contaminated water and how to use the dispenser to treat their water. A community member is elected to be the dispenser ‘promoter’, who encourages use of the dispenser, reports any problems, and refills the dispenser with chlorine. Usage and functionality of all dispensers will be closely monitored by Evidence Action. Benefits • Health Impacts: Reduction of the burden of disease from diarrhea in target populations, particularly in children under five. • Environmental Impacts: Reduced burning of non-renewable firewood will lead to reduced greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change. • Social and Economic Impacts: Households that use the Chlorine Dispenser System have to spend less time and money collecting firewood.

From a social perspective the project reduces water borne diseases, improves overall health and cuts the amount of time and money needed to collect firewood. From an environmental angle the project alleviates pressure on Malawi’s unique natural landscapes through reducing the burning of woody biomass to purify water. Due to the decreased burning of firewood, the project significantly cuts planet-warming emissions that contribute towards climate change.