Soumya Raghavan

The improper disposal of sanitary napkins and diapers in apartment complexes has been a growing cause of concern. The non-biodegradable nature of sanitary waste makes its disposal difficult, as it cannot be composted on-site, calling for proper disposal through specialised waste management.Soumya Raghavan, member of the Bangalore Apartments Federation (BAF), says many apartments in the city have partnered with organisations to ensure safe, hygienic and eco-friendly disposal of sanitary waste. Whitehouse Apartment in RT Nagar where she lives, is working with biomedical waste management providers like Medicare Environmental Management. Some other apartments have joined hands with PadCare Labs, which recycles used pads.BAF has taken initiatives to spread awareness about proper disposal of sanitary pads, as also about menstrual health, sanitation and hygiene by conducting sessions and workshops. Seema Sharma of Mantri Espana in Bellandur says they conduct sessions for housekeeping staff regarding the same by providing them with menstrual cups and cloth pads to encourage the use of alternatives and thus, reducing the problem of disposal of sanitary napkins. Namma Swachha Kannamangala is a community-led waste management initiative that has also engaged in distributing sanitary products to housekeeping staff in apartments.Bindu M, member of the management committee at Promont Tata Housing, says sanitary waste, in particular, is disposed of in the basement and labelled ‘Reject Waste’, while sanitary pads must mandatorily be properly wrapped when disposing. Residents are fined if they don’t follow these guidelines. She also added that the active participation of women in the MC has helped to take effective actions on such important issues.Proper sanitary waste disposal needs community effort and responsible waste management. Apartment initiatives and associations like BAF show that change is possible through awareness and innovation. By using eco-friendly alternatives and following better disposal practices, Bengaluru residents can help keep the city cleaner and healthier.– Diya Hussain VAVOICE BOXHousehold sanitary waste should not end up in landfills as rejects. Due to its hazardous nature, it should ideally be avoided by alternative sustainable means. If not, it must be incinerated at very high temperatures as per the solid waste management guidelines.Soumya Raghavan, MEMBER, BANGALORE APARTMENTS FEDERATION (BAF)With time, more communities will be open to using alternatives and eliminating disposable pads. It’s a slow process.Seema Sharma, MANTRI ESPANA, BELLANDUR