In India, sanitary napkins are still not widely used, especially in the rural areas of the country where there is less awareness on menstrual health and hygiene. Whereas in urban areas, due to poor waste management, sanitary napkins lead to plastic pollution and end up choking the landfills.
RI Nanotech, a startup based in Haldwani in Uttarakhand is manufacturing biodegradable sanitary napkins called Florish Pads that are safe for use and also for the environment.
The team behind the eco-friendly sanitary pad at RI Nanotech. (Image: RI Nanotech)
What makes these sanitary napkins different is that they are made of natural ingredients that include bamboo, banana cotton, and biodegradable sap, which makes them anti-fungal and anti-bacterial.
Speaking to NDTV, Rajendra Joshi, CEO, RI Nanotech said,
“The USP (Unique Selling Point) of our sanitary napkin is that it contains Graphene Oxide, which is wonderful material and has a capacity of holding five times more menstrual blood than regular pads. It not only makes the pad odour-free, but it is also breathable and thus helps women experience a rash and itch-free periods. It is biodegradable, which means within it will be converted into fertiliser within three to six months.”
On the other hand, conventional napkins are made of plastic that are harmful to the environment and also uncomfortable to use.
The cost of these sanitary pads is Rs 50 for a pack of 10. It will also be launched in New Zealand by next month.
Rajendra added,
“While several efforts are being made in the country for proper waste disposal and management, yet, a lot of it ends up in our landfills and water bodies. Sanitary pads is one such category of waste that is found most commonly, degrading the environment and spreading pathogens. This is because the popular products in the market have bleached polymer-based material which is not only dangerous for the environment but also very unhealthy for human bodies. The sanitary napkin produced by us is made from a biodegradable material which is also women-friendly,” reports NDTV.
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