NAGPUR: What to do with menstrual waste, which is a common dilemma in urban as well as rural areas, now has a one-stop solution with an innovation by Nagpur-based National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (Neeri).
While initiatives to clean the blots around periods led to an increase in use of sanitary napkins, the urban local bodies are staring at a fresh problem — increasing heaps of used non-compostable pads. To tackle this, Neeri, under its in-house project — Rise High Through Hygiene Management (Rhythm), has come up with ingenious inventions.
Right from a biodegradable sanitary napkin, anti-microbial collection bags, dustbins to a zero-touch collection system — the institute has developed a complete menstrual waste collection unit. Spearheaded by Neeri director Rakesh Kumar and chief scientist Sadhana Rayalu.
The first invention is 100% biodegradable napkin which can be composted, incinerated or carbonated. To ensure that the next step which is collection of pads is done scientifically, Neeri has designed the first-of-its kind anti-microbial bags.
“Made from paper waste and coated with a biopolymeric material, these bags prevent growth of microorganisms and also control the odour emitted from used pads,” said Rayalu.
The bag will also avoid leakage of blood in case the napkin comes in contact with water. “Specific agents will be sprayed on the bag which will initiate a pre-treatment of the waste,” she added. Neeri has developed special dustbins which are covered with anti-microbial linings.
The institute has innovated different types of incinerators that do not emit toxic chemicals dioxins and furans but is instead based on carbonization.
The group of scientists have also come up with a zero touch collection system — an ideal solution for stigmas attached with touching the soiled napkins. The institute claims that all the solutions are cost-effective.
Organisations like Development Alternatives, Red is the New Green Initiative, Centre for Clean and Sustainable Development (CCSD) and others are helping Neeri in its outreach programme.