In summer 2025, Ecofiltro Europe supported a grassroots clean water initiative in Molesti, Moldova, in collaboration with Linus Kerkhoff, a student and volunteer firefighter from Germany. Together with his team, Linus organized a humanitarian mission to bring safe drinking water to rural families and children in local institutions.

The project was made possible through the donation of nine Ecofiltro 20L units, helping communities with limited access to clean water.

Why Moldova?

In many parts of Moldova, both groundwater and tap water are contaminated due to agricultural over-fertilization, lack of sewage infrastructure, and unmanaged waste disposal. Drinking water is often collected from community wells, but testing revealed unsafe levels of nitrates and other pollutants.

The situation is especially critical for children, who regularly consume untreated water both at home and in schools.

By providing a simple, plastic-free filtration system that works without electricity or chemicals, Ecofiltro helps communities access safe water using the resources already available to them.

Where the filters went

With local support on the ground, the donated filters were installed in:

• Two family households living in difficult conditions
• Several local schools and one kindergarten, giving hundreds of children daily access to clean water

In each location, the filters were explained and set up together with staff and caregivers. Teachers and school directors expressed relief and gratitude, knowing their students could now drink safely.

Local impact

Families were deeply affected by the water testing results. Many had no idea how poor their water quality was. In one case, a father of three was shocked to learn that the water he had been giving his children every day was unsuitable for consumption.

In schools, the change was immediately noticeable. Children could drink water freely, and teachers no longer needed to worry about its safety.

“For us, it was moving to see how naturally the filters were accepted. The children were excited. And for many, it was the first time they could drink without concern.”

– Linus Kerkhoff

A shared commitment

This project reflects the heart of Ecofiltro Europe’s mission: supporting community-led efforts that protect health, reduce waste, and make clean water accessible.

We are grateful to Linus and his team for their dedication, and to the families and institutions in Molesti for their openness and trust.

If you are interested in this project, you can contact the volunteer team directly:
Linus Kerkhoff (linus-kerkhoff@web.de) or Michael Dohmen (michael.dohmen@kreis-heinsberg.de).

The development of an affordable, eco-friendly water filter with health assurances has made significant strides in social and environmental protection. This endeavor aligns closely with the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals established by the United Nations.

Through its social program, which focuses on delivering water filters to rural schools in Guatemala, Ecofiltro has positively impacted the lives of approximately 1 million families in these regions. By providing access to safe drinking water, Ecofiltro has markedly enhanced their quality of life.

Operating on a "social business" model, a portion of the filter sales in urban areas finances the distribution of filters in rural regions. Between 2014 and 2022, this approach facilitated the distribution of 33,751 Ecofiltros to 6,210 schools.

Furthermore, Ecofiltro has made significant environmental contributions by substantially reducing carbon emissions. By eliminating the need to boil water for purification, Ecofiltro has led to a reduction of approximately 459,097 tons in firewood usage, equivalent to saving 500,000 trees in the country and mitigating the risk of deforestation.

On a global scale, Ecofiltro plays a vital role in combating plastic pollution, particularly in oceans and seas. This technology reduces reliance on non-biodegradable packaging, thereby addressing one of the most pressing environmental crises of our time. With its presence in Europe, Ecofiltro contributes to saving approximately 6.5 million plastic bottles annually.

In recognition of Ecofiltro's commitment to social and environmental responsibility, we proudly achieved B Corp certification in February 2020. This milestone further underscores our dedication to promoting sustainable practices and enhancing public health.

Join us in our mission to create positive social and environmental change.

Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of communities worldwide and safeguard our planet for future generations, all through the use of Ecofiltro.