Male’, Maldives, 30 July 2024 – N. Magoodhoo has embarked on a significant environmental initiative with the launch of the Budu Fothi reusable nappy program. Supported by the Women’s Development Committee, Island Council, Health Centre, and Soneva Namoona, this program was officially unveiled at a launch event held yesterday, attended by participating families.
The Budu Fothi program aims to tackle several pressing issues: reducing the amount of nappy waste generated on the island, decreasing reliance on imported single-use nappies, and fostering a culture of using reusable alternatives. Over the course of the three-month trial, all thirty-two families on the island with diaper-wearing children will transition to reusable nappies.
During the launch, each family received a reusable nappy kit along with detailed instructions on their use. Participants also committed to adopting practices that promote both environmental sustainability and improved health for their children by signing a pledge. To support the initiative, a community support group has been established to assist families and ensure the trial’s success, encouraging shared learning and collective effort.
Additionally, local retailers will be provided with information about reusable nappies and introduced to Zero Waste Maldives, a supplier specializing in these products. This effort is intended to create a sustainable supply chain and enhance access to reusable nappies on the island.
An island-wide survey conducted before the trial revealed the substantial impact of single-use nappies. On average, a family spends approximately MVR 831 per month on single-use nappies, amounting to around MVR 30,000 over three years. Each child’s nappy is changed at least four times daily, leading to approximately 4,320 soiled nappies over three years. This waste could cover an area equivalent to six volleyball courts, presenting a significant disposal challenge for the island’s small community.
Maajidha Hassan, President of the Women’s Development Committee, highlighted the initiative’s importance: “Managing nappy waste is a real challenge for our island, and accumulated waste poses a health hazard. The Budu Fothi campaign offers a promising solution, creating a more sustainable environment for our children. We are excited to provide parents with information about and access to healthier alternatives.”
Khadeeja Hamid, Reduce Manager at Soneva Namoona, stressed the program’s broader implications: “This trial is crucial for gathering data to guide future efforts and for showcasing the need for accessible, reusable alternatives to single-use products. We hope it will drive broader changes and garner support from both government and private sectors.”
Participant Fathimath Namha expressed her optimism: “Joining the Budu Fothi trial gives us hope that we can reduce our environmental footprint while ensuring safe and effective care for our children. We are excited to be part of this initiative.”
Soneva Namoona, a non-governmental organization dedicated to innovative waste management solutions in the Maldives, is committed to implementing sustainable programs across various atolls. The organization focuses on promoting environmental stewardship and community well-being through island-specific and inter-island approaches.
