Eirini Aivaliotou, Volunteer
Water scarcity in Jordan
Access to clean water and awareness about a sustainable way of using it has long been a challenge for many communities across the globe. Jordan is the second most affected country when it comes to water shortages. This has become a major worry for the health and needs of a fast-growing population and the survival of their agriculture. According to USAID, Jordan's population is expected to double by 2047, increasing the demand for water and sanitation services. On top of that in Jordan, 33.6% of the population is not connected to the sewerage system, resulting in widespread pollution from illegal wastewater discharge and cesspits. This brings concerns about the spread of diseases such as diarrhea, hepatitis, cholera, dysentery, typhoid, and polio.
In many rural areas, schools struggle with inadequate infrastructure, limited access to clean water, and poor sanitation facilities. This becomes a burden for the students and their education. Overall, water scarcity has become a threat to the country’s development.
SOLVillion, one of the Tadamon Accelerator participants and grant awardees is a Jordanian organization that sets out to address these challenges by installing DWWS Box (Decentralized Wastewater Treatment Systems) in schools and other areas. Thanks to a $10,000 grant received from the Tadamon Accelerator, SOLVillion has implemented a comprehensive three-way approach that is needed nationwide: Firstly, by installing DWWS Box (decentralized wastewater treatment system) in a school; secondly, by offering training program for the school community in water treatment and sanitation; and finally, by raising awareness about the importance of wastewater treatment.
Reusing treated water for irrigation
SOLVillion's success underscores the transformative role of the Tadamon Accelerator’s support. A representative from the organization shared: “The Tadamon Accelerator has been a game changer for SOLVillion. The 14-week program provided us with essential insights through mentorship and workshops, enhancing our ability to make a positive impact. The grant we received allowed us to install a Decentralized Wastewater Treatment System (DWWS Box) which treats and reuses 720 m3 of water annually at a vocational school. We at SOLVillion are deeply grateful for Tadamon’s support in advancing our mission towards sustainability.”
Decentralized Wastewater Treatment System: How Does it Work?
The organization provides an innovative solution to Jordan’s pressing issues by installing the Decentralized Wastewater Treatment System (DWWS) Box, which is an innovative onsite alternative to septic tanks that utilizes biological processes to treat wastewater and reuse the treated water for irrigation and greening purposes. This method has been tested by the organization with over 64 systems installed across 9 cities in Jordan serving more than 40,000 people.
With this method, the treated water can be safely reused for agricultural irrigation and greening, effectively addressing both sanitation and water scarcity issues. The close collaboration among various stakeholders in this project contributed to raising awareness within the local community and schools while promoting cooperation between local communities, schools, civil society organizations, and the Ministry of Education.
Installation of DWWS Box at Hassan Al-Kayed Comprehensive Secondary Vocational School
As a key part of the initiative, the HASSAN Al-Kayed Comprehensive Secondary Vocational School for Boys in Jerash, the largest agricultural branch in Jordan, was selected as an ideal example of a school that integrates education with practical agricultural applications.
After being selected, the school underwent a transformation process of installing and monitoring the DWWS Box’s effectiveness in treating wastewater and repurposing it for irrigation. The treatment system now irrigates approximately 500 square meters of school land. The installed DWWS box offers an incredible opportunity for the school to conserve water, reduce water waste, and educate students in the process. Additionally, the treated water is used for irrigation on the property providing significant environmental benefits.
Testimonial from Eng. Haider Adibat from the School
Additionally, students are now actively engaged in sustainable agricultural practices, learning valuable skills through the training they undertake. The training includes group work, where students are introduced to the DWWS Box Technology, how it works, and how to use it effectively.
Towards a Wastewater Treatment Solution for Jordan
SOLVillion has proven that with the right approach, it is possible to create lasting change in education and community development. By addressing the fundamental needs of clean water, sanitation, and hygiene, and by integrating these elements into the educational experience, the project has not only improved the health and academic performance of students but has also empowered entire communities to work towards a brighter, more sustainable future.
The school’s success has sparked interest in other schools too. The local community is curious to learn about this new technology and install it as well. It has given great hopes for Jordanian schools and households that the issues of water scarcity and sanitation can be solved in a cost-effective and sustainable way.
Learn more about SOLVillion´s work and support them.