Until recently menstruation products were only really talked about in ladies’ toilets or in pharmacies. The main topics of conversation were probably on comfort, hygiene and practicality. However, all of that is changing as more and more people are becoming aware of the environmental impact of period products.
Studies have shown the massive environmental effect of period product waste with over 28,000 tonnes generated annually in the UK alone. The main bulk of this is from disposable pads and it is thought that by replacing these with reusable ones we could reduce the menstrual waste volumes by approximately 23,000 tonnes.
These are some interesting statistics:
- Half of UK women flush tampons away. It has been estimated that 1.5-2 billion menstrual items are flushed down Britain’s toilets each year. 9 There are approximately 370,000 sewer blockages throughout the UK every
- Most menstrual pads are made from 90% plastic. 7
- There are approximately 370,000 sewer blockages throughout the UK every year, of which up to 80% are caused by fats, oils and grease, wipes, sanitary waste and other unflushable items. 10
- Disposal of single use menstrual products - tampons, pads and applicators generates 200,000 tonnes of waste per year. 6
- Plastic waste kills up to 1 million seabirds, 100,000 sea mammals, marine turtles and countless fish each year. Plastic remains in our ecosystem for years, harming thousands of sea creatures every day. 13
Many of us spend a big chunk of money on sanitary products each month and many are now looking at how this money can be spent in a more environmentally friendly way. Here are some of the developments that can be used for safe and hygienic period protection whilst at the same time being environmentally friendly.
Period pants
These are leak-proof knickers with a super-absorbent gusset, made from an odour-eliminating fabric. They're moisture-retentive, hygienic, comfortable, and available in different absorbency options depending on how heavily you bleed.
How often you need to change, depends on your period. Most can be worn for 10-12 hours. To wash you simply need to rinse in cold water and then add to your laundry.
Best of all these pants are sustainable. With the average woman using up to 11,000 disposable period products in her lifetime, switching to period pants can make a huge difference
Menstrual cup
A menstrual cup is reusable and is a small, flexible funnel-shaped cup made of rubber or silicone that you insert into your vagina to catch and collect period fluid.
One cup can be used for up to 12 hours and is completely safe to wear at night. With proper care they can last for up to ten years, so again have a massive impact on sustainability. They are also cheaper and can be safer as there is no risk of toxic shock syndrome that can accompany tampon use.
Reusable pads
According to global market-research provider Mintel, 83 per cent of women say they would try a reusable sanitary pad as they provide a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to disposable ones.
Reusable pads are generally made from either bamboo or cotton, which makes them both durable and breathable. With the absorbency of a super tampon most people can wear one pad for eight hours. When it comes to washing, simply rinse and put in washing bag to put in the washing machine.
With research indicating that some 49 billion and 19 billion single-use menstrual products are consumed each year in the EU and USA, respectively, switching to reusable can have a big impact.
Reusable tampon applicators
An applicator makes life just that little bit easier for lots of women and using a reusable one makes your period a little greener. Simply, wash between uses and you can make a big difference to the planet.
Cotton products
Most brands use chemicals and synthetic materials containing plastics and perfume when making sanitary products, choosing ones made from cotton is better for your body and the planet so a win win.
With over 45 billion menstrual products disposed of globally each year and with 1.4 million pads and 700,000 pantyliners flushed down the toilet every day in the UK. By opting for sustainable menstrual products, you are doing your bit for the environment, climate change and to reduce your carbon footprint.
At Britt’s Superfoods we are passionate about protecting the environment, after all we use sustainable, organic farming methods to grow and harvest our juices, so that we can provide you with the best that nature has to offer. To order your organic juices visit our shop here today.
