This study examines the challenge of improving water access to meet SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), while also reducing dependence on plastic-based water delivery systems, such as those using polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles and low-density polyethylene (LDPE) sachets. By considering the traditional technology of ceramic gravity filters, this paper estimates plastics displacement effects that could occur if gravity filter technologies increase their participation in selected African markets. The dual objective of meeting SDG 6 while reducing the plastics-intensity of the economy requires intersectoral action aligning efforts in the water, plastics and waste management sectors.

In the four evaluated countries combined (Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda and Ghana), an estimated 60 million plastic bottles and sachets are used every day. This results in an annual total plastic footprint for drinking water of 105 million kilograms, which is equivalent to an annual carbon footprint of 230 million kilograms of CO2. Full displacement of these SUPs would require an estimated 1.5 million ceramic water filters and could reduce the carbon footprint of water delivery by 99%. This transition would, however, require a shift in consumer behaviour away from conveniently distributed and cooled plastic-packaged water. The banning of SUPs may accelerate this transition; however, without accessible and affordable alternatives, this can delay the achievement of SDG 6 in some regions.

Key recommendations include:

1. Appropriate water treatment technologies, such as ceramic gravity filters, should be brought to the mainstream market in sub-Saharan Africa to design waste out of the water supply system by replacing SUP bottles and sachets;
2. Commercial supply chains for these products should be strengthened, with an emphasis on local production and circularity; and
3. Behaviour change and marketing campaigns should be conducted to reduce SUP adoption and promote water filters in their place.