Japan Platform for Redesign: Sustainable Infrastructure (JPRSI)

JPRSI Online Pavilion

Technology / Service Summary

"WOTA BOX" is a portable water reuse system that connects to various water sources. It recycles over 98% of its water, turning 50 liters of shower water into less than 1 liter of wastewater. This means just 100 liters of water can provide nearly 100 showers. It requires no plumbing and is powered by electricity, making it ideal for disaster relief. Our autonomous water treatment technology ensures water quality consistently exceeds tap water standards, providing a safe, clean, and sustainable solution even when water is scarce.

Purpose

"WOTA BOX" provides reliable access to clean water even in disaster-affected areas where water supply systems have been disrupted, as well as in places where running water is not available such as in deserts, forests, or disaster areas.

Feature

◆Life beyond limits with easier access to water
Life where anyone can access clean water anywhere, made possible by technology that is people and eco-friendly. Cutting-edge, automated control of water treatment enables on-site reuse of more than 98% of water.
"WOTA BOX" makes it possible to use water anytime and anywhere, even in places where running water is not available such as in deserts, forests, or disaster areas. It is an entirely new type of water infrastructure, small enough to be carried.
◆Reuse 98% of limited water resources
"WOTA BOX" allows you to reuse more than 98% of the water you use. More people can use water more times, even after disasters or when water is in short supply.
◆More water than usual used in the usual way
Water passes through six filters before emerging as ultra-soft water that is gentle on the skin. Soap and shampoo can be used as always, making it ideal for post-disaster showers.
◆Plug-and-play setup
No complicated plumbing. Just plug in the tubes and power cord, and flip the switch to ON. The built-in pump makes setup as simple as possible.
◆Maintenance status and user manual appear on the front display
The front display shows everything you need to know about "WOTA BOX", from performing maintenance to troubleshooting. Multiple sensors constantly monitor and control water
quality. Intelligent support of water purification process to provide a real-time estimate of when to change filters.

Effect

"WOTA BOX" is a portable water recycling system designed to connect with various water sources, such as shower and handwashing stations. By efficiently recycling water, "WOTA BOX" reduces waste, allowing just 50 liters of shower water to result in less than 1 liter of wastewater. This means that 100 liters of water can provide nearly 100 showers. The system requires no plumbing work and, with just a power use. It is particularly useful in situations like natural disasters.
During the 2024 Noto Peninsula Earthquake, approximately 100 units were deployed across six municipalities in Ishikawa Prefecture (Suzu City, Wajima City, Noto Town, Anamizu Town, Shika Town, and Nanao City) where water supply disruptions were prolonged. The shower kits feature private cubicles, enabling relatively easy use by vulnerable populations during disasters—such as the elderly, individuals with disabilities, infants, and pregnant or postpartum women—who may face challenges accessing conventional bathing support services provided by organizations such as the Self-Defense Forces. Furthermore, in post-disaster situations, these units are actively utilized at outdoor events including marathons and disaster preparedness drills organized by local governments.

Controlled Substance

Applicable Regions / Countries

  • Japan

Reference URL

Related SDGs Goals

  • 6. Clean Water and Sanitation
  • 7. Affordable and Clean Energy

Portable Water Reuse System

Youtube Videos

"Documentary of Support Activities for the 2024 Noto Peninsula Earthquake" (Long Ver./EN)