Bird Island, a remote sub-Antarctic territory located north of South Georgia, is one of the most scientifically significant research stations operated by the British Antarctic Survey (BAS). With no access to conventional water infrastructure, all freshwater used on the island must be collected from natural sources such as streams or rainfall.
Ensuring the safety of this water for daily use, including drinking, cooking, and hygiene purposes, is key for the well-being of the small team of researchers and staff who live and work in this isolated, and often extreme, environment.
The water collected from Bird Island’s environment contains natural particulate and microbial risks. The harsh climate and remoteness of the site demand filtration solutions that are robust, low-maintenance, and highly effective, ensuring consistent access to safe, potable water all year round.
Fileder Filter Systems provided Pentair Big Blue 20” filter housings fitted with a two-stage filtration system using 1 and 5 micron SWP wound filters. These filters are designed to trap sediment, organic matter, and other particulates prior to the final stages of water treatment – UV sterilisation and subsequent chlorination.
By using Fileder’s filtration products, the BAS team at Bird Island can treat and use locally sourced water, reducing the need for costly and logistically challenging water deliveries. The BAS team say “The Fileder filters play an important part in this process,”. The durability and efficiency of the SWP filters ensure long service life and ease of maintenance – essential qualities in such a remote location.
