Access to clean drinking water remains one of the biggest challenges in Ghana, with water bodies increasingly contaminated due to industrial pollution, illegal mining (galamsey), and poor sanitation. The situation is so dire that the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) recently warned that the country could be forced to import water by 2030 if pollution levels continue to rise.
Amidst this crisis, Element15, a forward-thinking company focused on water purification and phosphorus recycling, has introduced the BAR (Biological Aquifer Recharge) system—a revolutionary water filtration solution designed to provide safe drinking water in communities facing severe water challenges.
Ghana’s Water Crisis: A Growing Threat to Public Health
Water is essential for survival, yet millions of Ghanaians struggle daily to access clean water. Boreholes, which serve as alternatives to the irregular flow of pipe-borne water, are increasingly contaminated due to pollution. Rivers, lakes, and streams that once provided drinking water have been rendered unsafe by chemical waste, untreated sewage, and the hazardous activities of illegal miners.
The effects of this crisis are already visible. Ghana has witnessed a recent cholera outbreak, a stark reminder of the deadly consequences of contaminated water. Waterborne diseases such as typhoid, cholera, bilharzia, and kidney failure are on the rise, with experts warning that unless urgent measures are taken, the country faces a public health catastrophe.
The BAR System: A Proven Solution for Water Purification
Developed by Ingmar Barendregt, the BAR system is an innovative, electricity-free water filtration system designed to make polluted water safe for consumption. The system is currently being implemented on a small scale in Northern Ghana, where access to clean water remains a significant challenge.
Unlike conventional filtration methods, the BAR system is passive and self-sustaining, requiring no electricity or fuel to function. It can be attached to any existing borehole, pump, or water source, making it highly adaptable for rural communities, disaster zones, and refugee camps.
How the BAR System Works
The BAR system utilizes a multi-stage filtration process to eliminate bacteria, viruses, heavy metals, and other harmful contaminants:
1. Pleated Filter – This removes large pollutants, including heavy metals and halogens, commonly found in polluted rivers and boreholes.
2. Bacteria Filter – Using advanced filtration technology, this stage eliminates harmful microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites.
3. Carbon Filter – This filter neutralizes the water, improves taste and odor, and makes it more appealing for regular consumption.
4. Fluoride Filter (Optional) – In areas with high fluoride contamination, an additional fluoride filter can be installed to ensure safety.
Additionally, the self-cleaning mechanism of the filters extends their lifespan, reducing maintenance costs. The system also features remote monitoring capabilities, allowing for real-time tracking of water flow, filter conditions, and maintenance schedules.
Fighting Galamsey-Driven Water Pollution
Illegal mining, or galamsey, has left many rivers and lakes heavily polluted with mercury, arsenic, and other toxic chemicals. The BAR system is designed to combat these challenges by effectively filtering out these contaminants, ensuring that even highly polluted water sources can be purified for drinking and irrigation.
This makes the BAR system an essential tool in mitigating the damage caused by unsustainable mining practices that threaten Ghana’s water security.
A Step Toward a Sustainable Future
With Ghana facing an escalating water crisis, the BAR system represents a ray of hope. By ensuring continuous access to clean water, it promotes public health, food security, and economic stability.
The small-scale deployment in Northern Ghana marks the beginning of what could be a nationwide solution to the country’s water challenges. Communities, NGOs, and policymakers are being urged to support the scaling up of this initiative to ensure that every Ghanaian has access to safe drinking water.
If adopted on a larger scale, the BAR system could become a transformational solution in Ghana’s fight against water pollution, disease outbreaks, and environmental degradation. As the country grapples with increasing threats to its water resources, innovative technologies like the BAR system are no longer optional—they are essential.
The King of Dagbon, Yaa Naa is Mahama Abukari Gariba II has lauded the project and has given his full support.
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