Using Science, Engineering, and Education to Address Water Supply Challenges in the Highlands of Guatemala

The Guatemalan Highlands is a popular destination for non-government organizations interested in performing relief projects. U.S.-based organizations such as Rotary International, Engineers Without Borders, and various religious organizations travel to Guatemala to conduct humanitarian activities which may be effective for the short term, but it is not clear that the efforts have a systematic impact. Students and faculty at the University of Missouri-Rolla have systematically studied water supply issues including undergraduate and graduate research projects and undergraduate engineering courses such as international capstone design. Materials engineers have been involved in the study of ceramic-based water treatment devices. These microfilters have the potential to be fabricated locally using locally-available materials. The academic program has resulted in the establishment of a collaborative relationship with the University of San Carlos in Quetzaltenango, Guatemala which provides opportunities for U.S. and Guatemalan scientists, engineers, and educators to address long-term water supply issues in the highlands.