206: Solving the Global Water Crisis for Just 30 Cents with Kurt Avery
In this episode, we talk to Kurt Avery. He is the owner and founder of Sawyer Products and someone who has dedicated his life to solving one of the world’s most urgent challenges, access to clean water, through innovation, partnerships, and a business model that gives back by donating 90% of their profits in a truly powerful way.
During this episode, we explore the global water crisis and how one simple innovation is transforming millions of lives. Kurt Avery, shares how his company is tackling access to clean water through groundbreaking filtration technology, partnerships with global organizations, and a unique business model that donates the majority of its profits.
Timestamps to relevant points within the episode, use this format:
[00:00] -Intro
[02:19] – Meet Kurt Avery & the story behind Sawyer Products
[03:31] – From snakebite kits to water filtration innovation
[05:15] – The Haiti earthquake & global breakthrough moment
[06:30] – Real stories showing the urgency of the water crisis
[09:47] – Reaching 40 million people with clean water
[10:56] – Biggest barrier: funding & scaling impact
[13:16] – Why solving the water crisis is actually possible
[14:12] – How the filtration technology works
[18:29] – Partnerships with 140+ global organizations
[20:50] – The 90% profit donation model explained
[23:31] – New innovation: malaria-preventing baby wraps
[27:32] – Environmental impact & sustainability benefits
[31:01] – Scaling impact through schools and communities
[31:22] – 23 years of struggle before success
[32:39] – Advice for impact-driven entrepreneurs
[36:30] – Final 5
Links from the episodes:
Kurt Avery’s book: Sawyer Think
Living Lighter, A Practical Guide to Reducing Waste – Online Course by Mariska Nell
Download your Free Beginner’s Guide To Waste-Free Living
Join our newsletter to be part of the change
Watch the interview on YouTube
Where can people find our guest?
Key Takeaways:
- Clean water access impacts health, education, income, and environment
- Sawyer filters can last 10–20 years and serve entire communities
- The company has helped 40+ million people globally
- Their model donates 90%+ of profits to humanitarian work
- Solving the water crisis is financially and technologically achievable today
- Sustainability isn’t just environmental, it’s human survival and dignity
“Kurt finds hope in the fact that solving the global water crisis could cost as little as 30 cents per person for 10 years of clean water. With scalable technology and growing awareness, we are closer than ever to making universal access a reality.”
About the author, Mariska
Hi, I’m Mariska – podcast host, artist, sustainability advocate and consultant, and storyteller driven by a deep passion for our planet. Sustainability isn’t just a topic I discuss; it’s a way of life I embody through my work, actions, and everyday choices.
My journey began several years ago when I started experimenting with trash as a medium in my artwork. What began as creative curiosity quickly turned into a deep dive into the environmental impact of waste. That curiosity expanded into a broader connection with nature—including a life-changing trek to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, where I found both clarity and purpose. It was there that I made the decision to leave the corporate world behind and commit fully to environmental work.
In 2018, I took that message public in the UAE by wearing every piece of trash I generated for 30 days. The result—65 kilograms of waste—sparked national conversations around sustainability and waste reduction. That bold experiment also became the catalyst for my podcast, Mama Earth Talk, where I’ve since connected with global thought leaders to explore sustainability and inspire meaningful action.
Over the years, I’ve collaborated with organizations such as Nespresso, Costa, and Dubai International Airport to implement practical and impactful environmental solutions. From optimizing waste management systems to leading awareness campaigns, I specialize in designing strategies that create real, lasting change.
My artwork—blending environmental advocacy with creative expression—has been collected by public figures including comedian Trevor Noah, environmentalist Adrian Grenier, entrepreneur Gary Vaynerchuk, radio host Kris Fade, Grammy Award-winning DJ Black Coffee, and NBA player Mason Plumlee. Through public speaking, podcasting, and art, I aim to inspire individuals and organizations to rethink their relationship with the environment.
With over a decade of international experience in design and project management across Australia, South Africa, the UK, India, and the UAE, I bring a unique mix of creativity and strategic insight to sustainability challenges. My global perspective allows me to collaborate across cultures, drive innovation, and empower others to make a meaningful impact.
As a lifelong learner and passionate advocate, I focus on practical, holistic solutions to environmental challenges—guided by systems thinking and a deep commitment to action. I hold a BA in Design, a postgraduate degree in Environmental Science, and a Master’s in Sustainable Design.