LifeStraw: Revolutionizing Safe Water Access Through Innovative Design

In this episode of the With Intent podcast byIIT's Institute of Design, hosts Thamer Abanami and Albert Shum welcome LifeStraw CEO Alison Hill. They discuss how LifeStraw was borne out of innovative technology and a unique business model that balances profit with purpose.

Key Points:

• The global water crisis: 2 billion people lack access to safe drinking water
• LifeStraw's origins with Vestergaard and partnership with the Carter Center
• Evolution from public health tool to consumer product
• Innovative hollow fiber membrane technology
• User-centered design principles for public health products
• LifeStraw's dual focus on consumer business and social impact
• Impact: Nearly eradicating Guinea worm disease, reaching 10 million children

Additional Resources:

• LifeStraw’s 2023 Impact Report
• Vestergaard (LifeStraw's parent company)
• The Carter Center
• World Health Organization water crisis statistics

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