Minus: A Zero-Waste Tap Water Filter Designed for Sustainability

A Truly Circular Solution for Clean Drinking Water

In 187 countries, tap water is hazardous for citizens or visitors. It can contain chlorine, lead, and bacteria that cause long-term health damage. Available filtration solutions are incredibly wasteful: discarded filters cannot be recycled and often become toxic waste, leaking chemicals into the environment. It arguably makes them worse than plastic bottles. Anastasia Klimova, a renowned designer, recognized the need for a truly sustainable water filter and created Minus, a zero-waste tap water filter that fits in your pocket.

Minus is a revolutionary water filter that addresses the pressing issue of contaminated tap water. It utilizes tap pressure to push water through a filter, instantly cleaning it from chemicals, bacteria, and odor. What sets Minus apart is its commitment to the principles of the circular economy, enabling reuse and recycling.

One of the standout features of Minus is its natural indigo colorant, which washes out with use. This serves as an end-of-life indicator, letting the user know when the filter needs replacement. By eliminating guesswork, Minus ensures that users always have access to clean water.

What truly sets Minus apart is its innovative approach to sustainability. The used filters can be easily returned through a convenient drop-off service at any post box. These filters are then sent to the factory, where they are cleaned, recharged, and sold again for reuse. This complete zero-waste experience makes Minus the first water filter designed to be truly circular.

When it comes to design and functionality, Minus excels. The filter is made of durable stainless steel, rubber-coated for better grip when wet. Both lids are made of food-grade rubber, ensuring safety and hygiene. Inside, a precision-manufactured seal fits all common tap sizes, making it compatible with a wide range of faucets.

The filter media of Minus is made of activated coconut charcoal infused with silver particles, preventing bacterial growth. The carbon is wrapped into an ion-exchange textile for enhanced filtration. The carabiner and front part of the Minus body feature threaded fastening and are removable for easy cleaning.

With dimensions of 190mm x 37mm x 53mm, Minus is compact and portable, fitting easily in your pocket or bag. The filter itself measures 80mm x 35mm x 35mm, ensuring it doesn't take up much space. The packaging, with dimensions of 350mm x 100mm x 47mm, is designed to be minimalistic and eco-friendly.

Operating Minus is simple and intuitive. All you need to do is find a tap, turn on the water, and open Minus's lids to prepare the bottle. Press Minus against the faucet and wait for 5-10 seconds for the water to be filtered. Once the bottle is full, remove everything from the tap, turn off the water, and shake Minus upside down to remove any excess liquid. Now, you can enjoy clean water wherever you go.

Throughout the design process, Anastasia Klimova conducted extensive research, including market analysis, user interviews, and testing. By identifying the pain points in scenarios where users try to stay hydrated in areas with contaminated water, she uncovered the unmet need for a portable zero-waste filter. This research-driven approach ensured that Minus addresses the specific needs and concerns of its users.

Minus has received recognition for its innovative design and commitment to sustainability. It was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Sustainable Products, Projects, and Green Design category in 2021. This prestigious award recognizes well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. Minus stands out for integrating industry best practices and competent technical characteristics, providing fulfillment and positive feelings while contributing to a better world.

With Minus, Anastasia Klimova has created a game-changing solution to the global issue of contaminated tap water. By combining innovative design, sustainability, and portability, Minus empowers individuals to have access to clean drinking water while minimizing waste. It is a testament to the power of design in addressing pressing global challenges.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Anastasia Klimova
Image Credits: Anastasia Klimova
Project Team Members: Anastasia Klimova
Project Name: Minus
Project Client: Anastasia Klimova


Minus IMG #2
Minus IMG #3
Minus IMG #4
Minus IMG #5
Minus IMG #5

Read More on Design Radiant