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The Pedal Pump (PEP) is a water pump that
is powered by physical strength. It is designed for irrigating vegetable
gardens. In combination with the SODIS-System (www.sodis.ch) or with
added chlorine (www.wata.ch) the PEP can also be used to transport
drinking water. Two simple pistons direct the water through a PVC
cylinder, which is cast in cement to the field. This helps to minimize
the arduous work of carrying water that is traditionally done by women.
The virtually rust-free PEP can be manufactured with local materials by
local craftsmen after they have been technically trained.
The experience of the last few years combined with scientific studies
have shown that families that have used the pump have on average more
than doubled their agricultural yields and income while reducing their
workload.
THE PEDAL PUMP TECHNOLOGY (PEP) IS SUSTAINABLE:
In ecological terms
-
groundwater cannot be overexploited
- thrifty use is made of the pumped water
- more crop per drop
- CO2 neutral thanks to the use of manual energy
In economic terms
- the PEP is inexpensive (around 70 US$)
- the PEP has a high return on capital invested
- its benefit-cost ratio is high
- Work intensive and capital saving
- Production and use of the PEP create jobs and income for the poorest
In
social terms
- scarce water resources are equally distributed, according to
human work and not purchasing power for electricity, diesel
- it creates employment and income for the poor
- Improves food security, develops selfsufficiency, and minimizes
migration
In
technological terms
- The PEP has technically matured, has been scientifically verified
and was acknowledged for excellence by HSLUT&A as well as by the UN
- The PEP has proved itself after years of use in the field
- the PEP is manufactured by village craftsmen
- spare parts are locally available
- the farmer manages and maintains a reliable technology; timeliness and
intensity of irrigation are under the farm-family's control
-
It is adjusted to local conditions
PEP technology and its effect on farming families have been evaluated by
independent organizations (UN ENSAIA, HSLUT&A)
Evaluation reports can be requested or downloaded on our website.
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