INSIGHTS / News

SETsquared Bath member, The Washing Machine Project, has expanded its capacity to help low-income communities manage health and hygiene through a new partnership with the Whirlpool Foundation.

The Washing Machine Project is the pioneer behind the world’s first flat-packable, manual washing machine that allows users to wash their clothes without electricity or a connected water source. This solution, Divya, which has currently impacted the lives of almost 30,000 people around the globe, saves users up to 76% of the time compared to hand washing clothes.

This new collaboration for the project aims to make a difference in the lives of another 150,000 individuals, targeting a crucial obstacle hindering their quality of life. Dubbed the ‘Global Washing Divide’ by the two collaborators, this joint effort will concentrate on the staggering 60% of the global population, roughly 5 billion people, who still resort to handwashing their clothes.

It will also extend the availability of the Divya manual washing machine to communities in India, Latin America, Mexico, and Africa. Over the initial five years, it is expected to save around 17 million hours for women and girls, enhancing their quality of life, while also cutting water usage in half through efficient and sustainable washing solutions in areas where they are most needed.

Navjot Sawhney, Founder and CEO, The Washing Machine Project said, “We are honoured to partner with the Whirlpool Foundation, whose legacy as a pioneer in home appliance innovation is only superseded by their passion to foster community development and improve life at home for people around the world.

“This collaboration is a testament to what can be achieved when compassion meets technology. Together we are set to revolutionize laundry practices globally, paving the way for a more equitable and prosperous future for hundreds of thousands of people.”

Pam Klyn, Executive Vice President of Corporate Relations and Sustainability, Whirlpool Corporation, added, “We greatly admire the mission and work of The Washing Machine Project and see an opportunity to help impact more lives collectively than either of us could individually,”

“Driven by shared passion and purpose, Whirlpool Corporation employees are lending their time and talents to help make this long-term vision a reality, recognizing that this initiative goes beyond washing clothes. It is about reclaiming time and improving lives for these individuals who will now spend much less time doing laundry, which opens the door to new opportunities.”

Throughout 2024, The Washing Machine Project plans to scale across numerous countries, partnering with organizations like the Whirlpool Corporation and international development and humanitarian organisations such as the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Save The Children, Oxfam, Care International, and Plan International.