Starting Date: 2021

Active Program: No (Project completed in 2022)

Fog Harvesting Technology in Ihuanco
AWA designed fog harvesters using mesh nets to condense water molecules from fog, providing a sustainable solution for water scarcity in remote communities. The nets, at least one meter squared in size, were erected perpendicular to the wind, allowing gravity to pull water droplets to a collector. On average, the system yielded three liters of water per square meter per day, with string-like models yielding up to nine liters. The collected water could be easily filtered for clean drinking water, addressing the needs of communities facing water shortages.

The fog-harvesting technology was tested in remote areas and required minimal supervision. After the construction phase was completed, AWA focused on maintenance and data collection, using funds from donations and sponsorships for fog net supplies, water storage units, and filtration system design. A portion of the team was based in Lima, Peru, near Ihuanco, a community chosen for its receptiveness to the intervention.

Ihuanco had been relying on insufficient and unfiltered groundwater, leading to storage issues and health risks. AWA’s fog-harvesting solution provided a reliable and clean water alternative, helping to restore access to water for domestic and agricultural purposes.

Although the project concluded in 2022, water access has been successfully restored in the community. The funds also went towards creating a park in Ihuanco, promoting social engagement, community building, and sustainability education.

The fog-harvesting technology remains a sustainable, low-maintenance solution adaptable for various water needs in smaller rural communities. Despite the higher initial investment for designing and implementing the technology, it provided a lasting solution to water scarcity in Ihuanco.