Charcoal filter / Activated carbon

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The Unicef upflow charcoal filter.
Photo: WHO.

Charcoal can be quite effective at removing some tastes, odours, and colour. Ordinary charcoal available locally could be used, but activated carbon is more effective, though rather expensive. An example of such a filter is the UNICEF upflow sand filter. However, if the charcoal is not regularly renewed or if the filter is left unused for some time, there is evidence that it can become the breeding ground for harmful bacteria.

Acknowledgements

• Emergency treatment of drinking water at point-of-use. WHO.