When Profit Powers a Clean Water Project for the Poor
Episode Description
Ecofiltro began as a nonprofit with a goal of helping the rural poor in Guatemala get access to clean water. But CEO Philip Wilson realized that becoming a for-profit company actually helped fulfill his social goals. More: http://knlg.net/1QcgWhg đź“‚ ESG;Management
Brief Summary
Philip Wilson discusses Eco Filtro's mission to provide clean water in Central America and the challenges of social entrepreneurship.
Key points
- The Clean Water Crisis. In Guatemala, over half the population lacks access to clean water, leading to severe health issues.
- Culturally Accepted Solutions. Philip Wilson discusses how eco filtro was designed to be culturally accepted, ensuring its success.
- Scaling the Business Model. Philip shares how he shifted his perspective to view rural families as potential clients.
- Economic Impact of Eco Filtro. Using eco filtro allows families to save money and time by reducing firewood consumption.
- Future Aspirations. Philip aims to reach a million families in Guatemala and expand into Mexico.
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Episode highlights
- The Clean Water CrisisIn Guatemala, over half the population lacks access to clean water, leading to severe health issues.“One out of 20 kids don't reach the age of five because of intestinal infections.”1:02Dec 2, 2015
- Culturally Accepted SolutionsPhilip Wilson discusses how eco filtro was designed to be culturally accepted, ensuring its success.“If you didn’t have a culturally accepted product, you wouldn’t be able to solve their problems.”2:13Dec 2, 2015
- Scaling the Business ModelPhilip shares how he shifted his perspective to view rural families as potential clients.“I’m going to look at them as potential clients, which changes the game completely.”3:55Dec 2, 2015
- Economic Impact of Eco FiltroUsing eco filtro allows families to save money and time by reducing firewood consumption.“The average family reduces its consumption of firewood by 21 pounds.”10:20Dec 2, 2015
- Future AspirationsPhilip aims to reach a million families in Guatemala and expand into Mexico.“I don’t want there to be one family that doesn’t have an eco filtro.”20:37Dec 2, 2015
Tension
45/ 100Some tension
