Editor’s choice
Editor’s choice
This study details a transdisciplinary project aimed at co-developing water quality monitoring technology in Vanuatu, focusing on the island of Efate. The research addressed the technology and user needs gap by engaging community members and stakeholders. The authors identified faecal contamination through water sample testing and developed a tailored device to detect Escherichia coli (E. coli) and other harmful germs.
This study outlines the outcomes of a transdisciplinary project focused on co-developing technology for water quality monitoring in developing countries, specifically on the island of Efate in Vanuatu. The research employed participatory approaches to engage community members and regional stakeholders, addressing the mismatch between technology and end-user needs.
Technical and social effects will inform what constitutes “safe” water: technology should not be viewed as a neutral, abstract “black box”.
By collecting and testing water samples, the authors found changes over time in faecal contamination and discussed issues related to germs in the water, which led to the creation of technology tailored for specific communities to detect germs in the water. They successfully developed a water quality monitoring device to detect E. coli and other harmful germs accurately.
The authors also highlighted the importance of incorporating technical and institutional specifications to ensure equitable access to technology benefits. This experience underscored the necessity for participating scientists and engineers to collaborate with social scientists to enhance user engagement in technology innovation processes.
Project / Does granting rivers legal rights help people and nature? This study analyzes the Atrato, Whanganui, and Turag rivers to find fair, effective governance.
Past event / The 13th APFSD will take place on 24-27 February 2026 at the United Nations Conference Center (UNCC) in Bangkok, Thailand.
Journal article / Researchers promote a co-design framework in medical devices that considers social and inclusive factors to ensure equity technological innovation.
