In recent news, it was reported that six young women from a fishing community in Assam have innovatively created a biodegradable and compostable yoga mat, which they have dubbed as the ‘Moorhen Yoga Mat.’ Their successful venture was made possible due to an initiative by the North East Centre for Technology Application and Reach (NECTAR), an autonomous society underneath the umbrella of the Department of Science & Technology. NECTAR is headquartered in Shillong, Meghalaya.
Understanding the Moorhen Yoga Mat
The ‘Moorhen Yoga Mat’ derives its name from the Kam Sorai or the Purple moorhen, a resident bird of the Deepor Beel Wildlife Sanctuary. The mat distinguishes itself with its entirely hand-woven make, using 100% biodegradable and 100% compostable materials derived from the water hyacinth plant. It can be instrumental in improving the aquatic ecosystem of Deepor Beel by aiding in the removal of water hyacinth. Furthermore, it contributes to sustainable production whether through utility products or community engagement and creates a source of livelihood for indigenous communities, promoting them to become completely ‘Atmanirbhar’ or self-reliant.
The Influence of Water Hyacinth
Water hyacinth is an invasive type of floating plant that is found in water bodies worldwide. These species are detrimental to their environment as they block sunlight and reduce oxygen levels in water systems, damaging water quality and affecting various life forms in the ecosystem severely. It is infamously known as the ‘terror of Bengal’ due to the negative impact it has on the local ecology and the lives of the people living there. Not only does it adversely affect irrigation, hydroelectric generation, and navigation, but it also leads to a reduction in fish production, aquatic crops, and increases diseases caused by mosquitoes.
Exploring Deepor Beel
Deepor Beel (Beel translates to wetland or large aquatic body in Assamese) is an essential riverine wetland situated around 10 km Southwest of Guwahati city in the Brahmaputra Valley of lower Assam. Deepor Beel holds great biological and environmental significance, and it also serves as the primary storm-water storage basin for Guwahati city. It is recognized as one of the most important staging sites for migratory birds in India, witnessing some of the largest congregations of aquatic birds in Assam during winter. As a result of its rich avian fauna, it was selected as one of the Important Bird Area (IBA) sites by Birdlife International. Moreover, Deepor Beel was designated as a Ramsar Site in November 2002.
The Impressive Achievement of the Six Girls
The commendable invention of the Moorhen Yoga Mat by the six girls from Assam stands as a testament to their innovation and drive for environmental conservation. Through their initiative, they have managed to generate livelihood opportunities for their community while contributing to the well-being of the Deepor Beel and its ecosystem. Furthermore, their venture has illustrated the potential benefits of the invasive water hyacinth, thereby shedding new light on how this plant can be effectively used without causing environmental harm. Altogether, their achievement symbolizes the power of technology in bringing about positive change and the importance of integrating community engagement into such efforts.
Information Source: PIB
