NativeEnergy Launches Program to Reduce Carbon Emissions

NativeEnergy has launched a program to combine carbon reductions with safe water in several developing countries. Ethiopia, Ghana and Kenya, among other countries, form the focal point of various projects under the program. All the projects are being certified to the Gold Standard, which is the leading global carbon offset standard.

Triple Quest, the partner of NativeEnergy in these projects, will provide Hydraid Biosand water filters. These advanced filters use an innovative methodology to eliminate greenhouse gas emissions that would other result from boiling water using unsustainably harvested wood.

NativeEnergy's Kirsten McKnight, who helped launch the project in Kenya, said: "Our experience at home is just so different from the situation we found in Africa. A safe water supply seems almost a luxury in some communities. The reception we received was wonderful. At NativeEnergy, we're all motivated to address climate change, but it's especially moving to be able to accomplish environmental goals while also protecting people's health."

Jeff Bernicke, NativeEnergy's president, said: "This program breaks the mold. Combining water filtration and carbon reductions is an elegantly simple and effective way to address pressing environmental and health problems. Using our signature 'Help Build' carbon offsets, NativeEnergy will provide essential early funding to the project based on the greenhouse gas reductions it will produce."

The Hydraid filter is powered by gravity, and helps make the water safe for drinking and other purposes. The filter has no moving parts to replace, and lasts up to 10 years or more, which makes it the most sustainable water filter available today. The cost of the filter is affordable, and in terms of effectiveness, it has shown a reduction of diarrheal disease by 59 percent. Diarrheal disease is a leading cause of death in the developing countries, and it can be prevented with a supply of clean water.

"We're proud to be engaged with NativeEnergy - a company that shares our commitment to sustainable business practices," remarked Christina Keller of Triple Quest. "This important partnership, which combines the value of the carbon credits with Hydraid filters, means we can reach more communities in need of clean water and reduce the terrible loss of life from waterborne diseases. Our studies show that the filter is improving the health of the families using it as part of an overall program of hygiene and sanitation."

Photo Credit: Ten_A