The Straw of Life

Simple, clever technology gives developing nations a safe drink of water

May.10

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For people in developing countries, especial those ravaged by flooding or other disasters, clean drinking water ranks high on their list of needs. But when all nearby water is dirty and full of disease, what can be done? Thankfully, some needy people can reach for their LifeStraw.

To use the LifeStraw, a user simply dips the device into a water source and sucks on the mouthpiece. As the water passes through the LifeStraw, the filters inside it take out most of the unhealthy elements. What was once dirty and dangerous water can now be made safer for consumption.

The LifeStraw was created in 2005 by Mikkel Frandsen, a Danish inventor. Frandsen felt a strong burden to help people in Africa. To make his invention a reality, he made use of the considerable cash and resources from his Frandsen family manufacturing business. Now, several NGOs currently distribute the LifeStraw on humanitarian missions.

Statistics on the world's supply of water indicate that over a billion people worldwide don't have access to safe drinking water. If the LifeStraw can get into the hands of those needy people, it would be refreshing news indeed.

Word Bank:

ravage(v.)　蹂躏；肆虐
The small mountain town was ravaged by the terrible storm.

consumption(n.)　消耗
If you're overweight, you should reduce your consumption of fast food.

humanitarian(adj.)　人道救援的；人道主义的
World Vision is a famous humanitarian organization that helps needy people.

statistic(n.)　统计资料；统计数据
Here's an interesting statistic: One in every 12 Canadians is left-handed.

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