Hyperlocal Bio-Hygienic Technologies

The centralized production of personal hygiene products ensures standardization and effectiveness for various consumer needs. However, these processes heavily rely on petroleum-based components and significant water content, contributing to global environmental challenges such as climate change. Additionally, when distributed as universal solutions, these products often fail to adapt to local habits, resources, and cultural practices. This study employs a Research through Design (RtD) methodology to explore sustainable, hyperlocal alternatives to mass-produced hygiene products. By leveraging indigenous production techniques and locally sourced biomaterials from four distinct Chilean bioregions, this research proposes a decentralized model for personal hygiene product development that considers local materials, heritage and communities, aligning with ecological and cultural sustainability.