Saathi
Saathi is an eco-friendly hygiene product manufacturer founded in 2015 by alumni of MIT and Nirma. The company aims to provide environmentally friendly and health-conscious sanitary pads. Saathi utilizes banana fiber from Gujarat, India, to produce biodegradable, plastic-free, and chemical-free pads. Additionally, the company focuses on education, job creation, and raising awareness about menstrual hygiene in rural areas.
Saathi’s products include eco-friendly sanitary pads made from natural materials, particularly banana fiber, ensuring they are plastic-free, chemical-free, and fully biodegradable. These pads decompose within six months, which is 1,200 times faster than conventional plastic-based pads, significantly reducing plastic waste and environmental pollution.
Key Benefits
- Eco-friendly: Uses banana fiber instead of cotton, conserving water and reducing fertilizer use.
- Locally sourced materials: Supports local farmers by purchasing banana fiber, creating additional income.
Beyond offering safe and sustainable products, Saathi is committed to empowering women within the community. The company has created employment opportunities, particularly for women, enabling financial independence. It also organizes educational workshops on menstrual hygiene, breaking social taboos and promoting health awareness. Saathi collaborates with non-profits such as Project Kilimanjaro (USA) and Tattv Bodh Foundation (India) to distribute eco-friendly sanitary pads to women in underserved regions. A $20 contribution supports sustainable menstrual products for one woman for an entire year while fostering awareness and reducing menstrual stigma.
Saathi aims to be a leader in sustainable production, women’s health advocacy, and environmental conservation, ensuring that millions of women have access to eco-friendly menstrual products while reducing global waste.