PROJECT DESCRIPTION
MIO is a water filter pitcher that consists of an unglazed terracotta jug and a refillable activated charcoal filter, providing drinking water free of impurities. Thanks to the terracotta material used, the pitcher keeps the water cool by evaporative cooling so no need to store it in the refrigerator. Below 30 degrees Celsius outside temperatures, the cooling effect is about 10 degrees Celsius. In addition the filter and the terracotta sidewalls work together to remove the chemical taste present in most tap water. The activated charcoal can be refilled by the user at home.
BACKGROUND
The concept was created to provide a local response to the global problems caused by the increasing consumption of bottled water all over the world. Drinking bottled water can be a solution for areas where the water supply is contaminated or as temporary water supply for regions struck by disasters. However the majority of consumption happens where it is not reasonable due to the decent quality of tap water, meaning unnecessary waste of resources and excessive production of garbage.
By using a reusable bottle instead of drinking PET bottled water, the amount of used energy is decreased by 85%, and the emission is decreased by 79% considering its’ whole life-cycle.
INSPIRATION
The main inspiration source of the project was the Hungarian terracotta water jug called ‘aratókorsó’ which was traditionally created by potters through ages in the country. It was a jug mainly used on the fields by peasants because its ability to keep water cool.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Materials: moulded unglazed terracotta, injection moulded PLA
Size: 15cm x 10cm x 26,5cm
Weight: 500 grams
Capacity: 1 liter
MIO was selected by the jury to make me! 2016 exhibition during this year’s Lodz Design Festival, and has won the Aquaform Special Prize.
http://makeme.lodzdesign.com/en/exhibition/
