N. Magoodhoo Launches Reusable Nappy Programme ‘Budu Fothi’
N. Magoodhoo has initiated Budu Fothi, a pioneering reusable nappy program supported by the Women’s Development Committee, Island Council, Health Centre, and Soneva Namoona.
Budu Fothi was officially launched at an event held yesterday in N.Magoodhoo with participating families.
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As part of the initiative, the community will be trialling reusable nappies with the aim of:
- Reducing the amount of nappy waste generated on the island.
- Decreasing the number of nappies imported to the island.
- Fostering a culture of using reusable nappies rather than single-use ones.
All thirty-two families on the island with diaper-wearing children will participate in the three-month trial. At the launch event, each family received a reusable nappy kit along with guidance on how to use them.
Participants also signed a pledge to adopt practices that ensure better health and a cleaner environment for their children. A community support group was also initiated to help the families and ensure the trial’s success, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared learning.
As part of this program, local retailers will be provided with information about reusable nappies and introduced to Zero Waste Maldives, a supplier that stocks reusable nappies. This initiative aims to create a sustainable supply chain, ensuring better access to reusable nappies on Magoodhoo.
An island-wide survey conducted prior to the trial revealed key insights into diaper usage patterns:
On average, a family spends approximately MVR 831 per month on single-use nappies, amounting to about MVR 30,000 over three years.
A child’s nappy is changed at least four times daily, resulting in around 4,320 soiled nappies over three years, which could cover an area of Sq.ft. 10,800 or 6 volleyball courts. This poses a significant disposal challenge to small communities.
