N. Magudhoo Island has launched Budu Foti, a pioneering reusable nappy programme with the support of the Women’s Development Committee, Island Council, Health Centre and Soneva Namoona. Budu Foti was officially launched at an event held with participating families on Monday in N. Magudhoo.
As part of this effort, the community will pilot reusable diapers to:
- This will reduce the amount of diaper waste generated on the island.
- Reduce the number of diapers imported into the island.
- Foster a culture of using reusable diapers instead of disposable ones.
All 32 families islandwide with children who use diapers will take part in the three-month trial. At the launch event, each family was given a reusable diaper kit and guidance on how to use it. Participants also signed a pledge to adopt practices that ensure better health for children and a cleaner environment. To support families and ensure the success of the trial, a community support group was also launched to foster camaraderie and shared learnings.
As part of the program, local retailers will be provided with information about reusable diapers and introduced to a supplier that stocks reusable diapers, Zero Waste Maldives. The initiative aims to build a sustainable supply chain and make reusable diapers more accessible in Magoodhoo.
A survey conducted island-wide prior to the pilot revealed key insights into nappy usage patterns.
- On average, a family spends around MVR 831 per month on disposable diapers, which amounts to around MVR 30,000 over three years.
- Because a child’s diapers are changed at least four times each day, over a three-year period, that translates to approximately 4,320 soiled diapers – an area of 10,800 square feet, or the size of six volleyball courts – creating a significant waste problem for a small community.
Speaking about the Budu Foti programme, Chairperson of the Women’s Development Committee Majida Hassan said, “Nappy waste management is a real challenge on our island and accumulated nappy waste is a health hazard. The Budu Foti campaign shows a promising solution to solve this problem while creating a more sustainable environment for children. We are pleased that through this programme parents can now have information and access to healthier alternatives.”
“This trial is important not only to gather data that will inform future research, but also to highlight the need for accessible, reusable alternatives to single-use products. We hope that this initiative will lead to wider change and support from all stakeholders, including governments and the private sector,” said Khadija Hamid, Reduce Manager at Soneva Namoona.
Fatimus Namha, a parent who took part in the trial, said: “Participating in the Budu Foti trial gives me hope that we can reduce our environmental impact while providing safe and effective care for my children. I’m very happy to be part of this effort.”
