With access to safe drinking water becoming a critical issue in countries such as India, a Holland-based company has developed what could be an affordable and environment-friendly solution. Solar Dew BV, part of the Akzo Nobel group, has designed a water purification system that is based on proprietary membrane technology and is powered by solar energy. The system can purify seawater and brackish water and remove bacteria, viruses and toxic substances such as arsenic, Mr Carl Berlo, Director, Solar Dew, told. The system produces water that meets the World Health Organisation's drinking water standards, he said. It is easy to set up and operate, requires little maintenance and works as long as there is sunlight, Mr Berlo said.