Access to water is recognized by the United Nations as a basic human right – fundamental to everyone’s health, dignity and prosperity. However, this remains far from a reality globally. Speaking of Colombia, approximately 3.7 million people lack access to clean and safe drinking water. This situation was exacerbated by a severe drought in 2024. Many of these individuals live in remote areas where they endure extreme heat, and the limited water available is often contaminated.
Ogilvy Colombia collaborates with Filsa Water, the Colombian Red Cross, and Baylor International to create a simple, yet powerful water filtration system providing an effective solution for the world’s water crisis. Filter Caps is simple to use without requiring any instruction manuals. One side of this universal bottle cap is screwed on a standard PET bottle containing non-potable water and the other end is connected to an empty bottle. As the water flows through the multi layered cap, the water’s PH level increases, adding hydrogen, reducing impurities by 70% and eliminating 90% of heavy metals.
“We believe that creativity has a very strong transformative value, and if this is combined with Baylor’s commitment and the great expertise, credibility and coverage of the Red Cross to reach the entire country, then what is achieved is an exceptional impact on people’s lives. We set out to create a solution as innovative as it is simple. That’s why we thought of this filter that can not only make water safe, but also mineralize it.”, says Gastón Potasz, CCO of Ogilvy Colombia
Filter Caps use additive technology, also known as 3D printing, and are made from sweet corn starch-based resin; a sustainable and biodegradable option, which considerably reduces dependence on conventional plastics. Each Filter Cap weighs just 24 grams, making it extremely compact and lightweight and can be easily distributed to even the most remote and underserved populations.
The cost-effective caps are capable of reclaiming over 300,000 liters of water in just 2 months. Currently, Filter Caps is assisting various communities in the region of Colombia, but it believes it can reach the world with support from larger companies.
“We are motivated to develop ideas with a purpose that impact the world. That is why we are sure that Filter Caps is here to stay, with the mission of reaching every corner of the world. We know the practical value it has in contributing to improving the situation of people in vulnerable situations, whatever your context. This type of project with such a high impact requires the participation of several actors to expand its full potential. We have already started to deliver thousands of Filter Caps, and we want to reach a million and even beyond. That is why it is so important to also have the commitment of companies.”, says Fabio Quiroga, CEO of Ogilvy Colombia
Filter Caps Video below:
