Deliverables¶
GANTT¶
The Gantt chart for The Biodegradable Pads Project provides a clear visual timeline of all key tasks, from initial research and material sourcing to product development, testing, and final launch. Each phase is mapped with specific start and end dates, ensuring efficient progress tracking. Critical milestones, such as prototype completion and regulatory approvals, are highlighted to maintain deadlines. Dependencies between tasks (e.g., testing cannot begin before production) are outlined to avoid delays. This structured overview helps staying aligned, prioritize resources, and adapt swiftly if timelines shift—keeping the project on track for a sustainable and timely delivery.
gantt_chart.pdf GANTT_CHART.EXCEL
BoM bill of materials¶
This Bill of Quantities (BOQ) lists the key materials, their costs, and sourcing locations for producing biodegradable pads. Each item includes the price per unit and supplier details, along with a short note on its eco-friendly properties or purpose. The breakdown ensures transparency in material selection and cost efficiency while supporting sustainable production.
Materials¶
| Qty | Description | Price | Link | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1kg | Dried banana pseudostems | 4.00 $ | Rwamagana Banana trees farm | Collected from farms after banana harvest |
| 1 | Sharp knife or scraper | 2.00 $ | SIMBA SUPERMARKET | Reusable tool for fiber extraction |
| - | Water | 22.00 $ | - | Used for soaking and rinsing fibers |
| 2 | Bucket or soaking tank | 3.00 $ | SIMBA SUPERMARKET | For soaking fibers during retting |
| 1 bag | Sodium Hydroxide (NaOH) | 8.00 $ | DUPHAR | Used in chemical softening of fibers |
| 500ml | Vinegar | 1.00 $ | SIMBA SUPERMARKET | Neutralizes NaOH after treatment |
| 1 set | Gloves | 5.00 $ | GOODLIFE PHARMACY | Protective gear during chemical handling |
| 1l | Hydrogen Peroxide (3%) | 13.00 $ | DUPHAR | making fibers softer, more absorbent |
| 100g | Sodium CMC | 6.00 $ | DUPHAR | Creates absorbent gel for fibers |
| 10l | Distilled water | 6.00 $ | DUPHAR | Used to prepare gel solutions |
| 1m | Organic cotton fabric | 3.50 $ | NYARUGENGE MARKET | Used for top layer of pad |
| 100g | Cellulose fibers | 2.00 $ | DUPHAR | Optional absorbency booster |
| 1 | Cornstarch bioplastic | 4.00 $ | DUPHAR | Waterproof bottom layer |
| 10 | PECTINASE | 25.00 $ | DUPHAR | |
| 1m | OLIVE OIL | 12.00 $ | SIMBA SUPERMARKET | Used for top layer of pad |
| 1box | SALINE | 2.00 $ | GOODLIFE PHARMACY | Optional absorbency booster |
| 1packet | Dropper | 2.00 $ | NYARUGENGE MARKET | Waterproof bottom layer |
| 10 pcs | Paper towels | 7.00 $ | SIMBA SUPERMARKET |
Slide show¶
Story telling script¶
In the heart of African women communities, strength grows from sisterhood and resilience. Yet many girls miss school every month due to a lack of menstrual health solutions. But what if nature itself held the answer? What if the banana pseudo stems, once discarded, could become a force for dignity, education, and empowerment?
Banana stems, often thrown away, now find new purpose. Through local innovation, they are transformed into soft, absorbent fibers, creating eco-friendly pads. Unlike conventional plastic pads that poison the soil for centuries, these biodegrade safely, protecting both girls and the land they walk on.
From harvesting and softening to compression and layering, each step of the process brings us closer to a sustainable future. These pads are handmade with care, tested for absorbency, and designed for comfort, offering girls the freedom to learn, thrive, and dream without limits.
From harvesting and softening to compression and layering, each step of the process brings us closer to a sustainable future. These pads are handmade with care, tested for absorbency, and designed for comfort, offering girls the freedom to learn, thrive, and dream without limits.