Clean, drinkable water for people in need

Wilo is donating mobile water treatment systems to Ukraine

Dortmund. The Wilo Group is donating more than 60 mobile water treatment systems to Ukraine. Each of these systems, called PAUL (portable aqua unit for lifesaving), can filter around 1,200 litres of water per day and therefore supply at least 400 people in crisis areas with fresh drinking water. Thus, the water-backpacks help to maintain vital basic supplies in severely stricken communities. “The PAUL water-backpack is an effective yet simple solution for the local treatment and quick supply of drinking water,” says Oliver Hermes, President and CEO of the Wilo Group. “We would like to use it to help alleviate the suffering of those affected most.”

Clean water is vital

The portable containers can be refilled constantly with water from springs, wells, or rivers. They contain an ultrafiltration membrane that reliably removes impurities, pollutants, and pathogens from inserted water. This provides people in need in regions affected by heavy fighting with fresh drinking water even without a power supply or external energy sources. “The supply of clean water is vital. Unfortunately, it is no longer guaranteed everywhere in Ukraine, due to destroyed infrastructures,” Oliver Hermes explains.

Help that arrives

The Wilo Group cooperates with companies, local associations and private initiatives ensuring that this important aid arrives safely. DB Schenker is transporting the water treatment systems via the so-called "rail bridge" - a train connection to Ukraine for relief supplies. The German Association of Local Public Utilities (VKU) delivers the PAUL water-backpacks to aid organizations and municipal water management companies on site. In addition, private aid workers and initiatives help safeguarding that the donations arrive at their destination area.

Wilo employees get involved

Wilo employees from numerous subsidiaries have been helping since the beginning of the military confrontation in Ukraine. Employees are providing support by donating money and goods. They also help refugees and their families to find accommodation and assist them in administrative matters, medical appointments, and opening bank accounts. Particularly Wilo's Polish subsidiary shows great solidarity with the people from its neighbouring country and coordinates a wide range of humanitarian aid activities.

Humanitarian situation worsening

The fighting in Ukraine has now been going on for more than six weeks. The situation has become dramatic in many cities and rural areas, where the general infrastructure has been destroyed. According to media reports, residents of numerous localities no longer have permanent access to water, food, electricity, or medical care, including the major cities of Mariupol and Kharkiv. "Water is a human right. Therefore, we see it as our humanitarian responsibility to help the people in the most affected crisis areas in securing a fundamental supply," says the President and CEO of the Wilo Group, Oliver Hermes, emphasizing the importance of this donation for the people in Ukraine.