Sunlight and Lime Naturally Purify Water, Could Solve Global Water Crisis

Natural sunlight and a slice of lime could potentially be the answer to the global water crisis, affecting millions of individuals worldwide who do not have access to water filtration services. Found to effectively remove all detectable levels of harmful bacteria such as E. coli, sunlight and lime work together as powerful disinfectants. Perhaps the most amazing part is that it only takes 30 minutes for this effect to take place, making it extremely fast as well.

The news could also prove useful for many first world citizens, who may not have access to water purification systems while traveling or even just looking to reduce their bacteria content in local water. While certainly no substitute for a powerful reverse osmosis or carbon filter with regards to the removal of heavy metals and other chemicals, the health-promoting combination can aid any water supply. In fact, adding lime or enjoying water with lemon is an extremely effective way to fight unwanted fat and boost your immunity.

On a larger scale, many countries are continually searching for ways to reduce the death toll from water-related illnesses. As a result of drinking seriously contaminated water, half of all hospital visits are a result of rampant bacteria and other water contaminants. On par with actually boiling water and other household treatments, lime and sunshine offer natural methods of combating the death toll as well as the infection rate — all at an extremely inexpensive price. Kellogg Schwab, the author of the study from Johns Hopkins University, explains:

“For many countries, access to clean drinking water is still a major concern. Previous studies estimate that globally, half of all hospital beds are occupied by people suffering from a water-related illness,” he said.

The news echoes announcements made by other nations who are continually turning to natural and sustainable alternatives in order to preserve the health and wealth of their citizens. In a monumental move, the political head of the New Zealand islands of Tokelau announced back in 2011 that Tokelau would soon be abandoning traditional energy sources (diesel, gasoline, kersone) in favor of coconut oil and sunlight. The alternative energy plan alloted 93% of the power generation burden to photovoltaic solar arrays, with the remainder placed on biofuel derived from coconuts.