Adaptable drinking-water laboratory unit for decentralised testing in remote and alpine regions

Our project introduces an adaptable drinking-water laboratory unit to promote decentralised drinking-water quality testing in remote and alpine regions. We outline product-design and handling requirements for analyses in remote areas as a basis for the development of do-it-yourself setups that fill the gap between field test-kits and professional laboratory facilities. In a collaborative effort between international researchers and local water experts, a setup was developed in the alpine region of Mid-Western Nepal. The unit’s main element, a solar-powered incubation system proved technically reliable, suitable for cold climates and easy-to-handle in mobile and stationary application. The setup can support the extension of water safety planning and water quality surveillance to so-far underserved rural or unreached remote regions. Long-term implementation will require a careful look at effective solutions for training, supervision, supply chains and integration into existing structures.