Innovating Eco-friendly and Sustainable Diapers and Pads from Water Hyacinth and Coconut Coir

Conventional synthetic sanitary pads and diapers pose significant environmental, health, and socio-economic challenges due to their non-biodegradable nature and reliance on plastic materials. This paper highlights the negative impacts of these disposable products on aquatic ecosystems, public health, and waste management systems. Furthermore, the research investigates the potential of water hyacinth and coconut coir as renewable and eco-friendly alternative materials for pad and diaper production. Water hyacinth, an invasive aquatic plant abundant in tropical regions, allows us to turn a problematic species into valuable material for sanitary pads and baby diapers. Additionally, coconut coir, extracted from coconut husks, offers absorbent and biodegradable properties suitable for diapers and pads. The performance, durability, and environmental footprint of water hyacinth-based and coconut coir/fiber sanitary pads and diapers are evaluated through laboratory testing and user feedback. Moreover, the paper shows the economic and social factors such as production costs, market accessibility, and community empowerment. By addressing critical challenges in menstrual hygiene and infant care, this research contributes towards decreasing water pollution and achieving sustainable development.