The Lucky Iron Fish Project is an initiative aimed at tackling anemia in Cambodia. In the U.S. 10-14% of the population suffers from anemia, whereas in Cambodia 44% of the population suffers from this illness. Anemia can lead to fatigue, the inability to concentrate, dizziness, and premature births. Anemia can be easily cured by consuming iron.
Chris Charles went to Cambodia to tackle this project. His research told him that simply using iron pots while cooking, would allow iron to be consumed by those eat the food. However, many women in Cambodia use steel pots because they are lighter and easier to clean. This gave Chris the idea to supply women with iron blocks to drop in their pots while making meals. Yet this idea was not enthusiastically adopted as the women were skeptical of the bulky iron block. Instead they used the iron block for other purposes such as a door prop or a wedge to stop furniture from moving. Chris went back to the drawing board and researched Cambodia’s religion and culture. He found that in Cambodia, the fish is a symbol of luck. After reading this, he determined that his iron blocks should instead be iron fish.
The lucky iron fish was adopted immediately, with an initial compliance rate of 92%. Rural Cambodian families began recommending it to one another because they felt the fish was really bringing them luck. However, Gavin Armstrong CEO of the project said, “In actuality it is bringing them health”.
Women reported feeling better after using the fish for six months. After nine months of use, the incidence of anemia is cut in half. The Lucky Iron Fish Project has partnered with six NGO’s in hopes of reaching all of Cambodia and beyond. Fish are supplied to families via monetary donations from individuals and these partnerships.
I chose this example of design for humanitarian impact because of it’s simplicity as a solution and because its design dependent on the input of its’ users. Looking back at the “Bootcamp” article, this project included the test mode, the interview method, it prototyped, tested with users, had obvious constraints, and used a character profile. By utilizing all of these methodologies, the project became successful.
To watch a short video that further explains the project, click here.
Sources:
http://luckyironfish.com/impact/
http://luckyironfish.com/about/
http://www.fastcodesign.com/1673101/this-iron-fish-offers-relief-from-anemia
By: Emily Sale
Design and Policy 