Integrated Volunteer Approach for Water Quality Improvement and Hygiene Promotion in Dornogovi Province, Mongolia

Ensuring access to safe drinking water remains a pressing challenge in Dornogovi Province, Mongolia, due to groundwater contamination, limited infrastructure, and frequent power outages. This study presents a volunteer-led approach that installed point-of-use water purification systems and delivered community-based hygiene education at five public institutions in Sainshand and Urgun. The volunteer team designed and implemented a multi-stage filtration system, including an arsenic adsorption filter for high-risk areas, and provided hands-on training to local staff on system maintenance. Laboratory analyses of water samples before and after installation confirmed a significant reduction in arsenic concentrations, with treated water meeting World Health Organization standards. The survey conducted among Sainshand residents revealed that most residents rely on non-piped water sources, often experience water shortages, and use bulk storage methods that increase the risk of contamination. The high incidence of power outages further underscored the need for robust, nonelectric purification solutions. The volunteer team organized and led sessions on hygiene and environmental education to complement our technical efforts and promote lasting behavioral changes. The results demonstrate that locally adapted community initiatives for water purification and education can effectively improve water quality and public health in resource-limited settings. This integrated approach offers a practical model for future community-based projects in Mongolia and similar environments.