The Establishment of an Absorbent Hygiene Product Waste Collection System in Two Informal Settlements in South Africa

Abstract

Absorbent hygiene products (AHPs), including nappies, sanitary pads, and tampons, have become essential personal hygiene products. In South Africa, most AHP waste is landfilled, however in informal settlements, where waste collection is insufficient, they are frequently dumped within the open environment. The purpose of this study is assess the feasibility of an AHP waste collection system within two informal settlements, Johanna Road and Blackburn Village, in the South African city of Durban. Utilizing a mix methodology case study design incorporating focus groups interviews, household estimations, and an iterative and participatory design process, the study designed, implemented, and tested a pilot AHP waste collection system within the targeted communities. The pilot collections results in a high purity of AHP waste, but with collection volumes which fell short of expectations, suggesting possible overestimations in household numbers or the AHP waste fraction. Moreover, the results indicated that the focus should be shifted from the complexity of bin design for AHP waste segregation to integration into the community. Moreover, it suggests that the aesthetic appeal of bins, as well as community feedback, are crucial factors in the acceptance and success of the project. Skill-appropriate instructions for the staff and a well-decomposed work breakdown structure emerged as key factors for the manufacturing process and staff motivation. Future research should focus on bin distribution's impact on increasing AHP waste collection and the potential for digitalizing data collection to modernize administration and enhance waste management efficiency in informal settlements.