Why We Need to Switch to Sustainable Period Products

Companies are working to make single-use period products more sustainable, but there’s still a long way to go. 45 billion menstrual products are used around the world each year, according to Plastic Oceans International. People who menstruate can generate over 400 pounds of waste in their lifetime.

Source: TEDx Talks/YouTube

August, a period products company is working to meet customers’ preferences by offering more sustainable pads and tampons. Nadya Okamoto, CEO of August, told ABC News that single-use period products are an environmental crisis that rarely gets the attention it needs due to the stigma that surrounds periods.

“Because of the period stigma, there hasn’t been the same level of accountability,” Okamoto said.

August has products that decompose at faster rates than other companies’ products, but even they admit that they are not perfect. The tampon applicators are still made from plastic and while they are recyclable, the chances are that they are often simply thrown away in the trash.

Single-use pads and tampons are the most popular and convenient choices for most consumers today. However, alternative products like period underwear and menstrual cups are becoming increasingly popular, and many are switching over to these eco-friendly options.

Getting started on your zero-waste period journey may be a little daunting at first, but once you have the appropriate products, you won’t have to buy anything for at least a few years. Think about how you feel about inserting a diva cup or needing to wash reusable pads or period panties when deciding which product to go for. You may enjoy using multiple of them during your cycle, too.

That time of the month isn’t always kind to us, but that doesn’t mean we have to turn around and treat the environment similarly. So, do what you can to minimize your period waste, and enjoy the newfound freedom of not having to buy period products monthly anymore.

Ready to make the switch to eco-friendly products? Check out our guide Which Eco Period Product Is For You?

Related Content:

• Petition: Demand These Companies Remove ‘Forever Chemicals’ From Period Products
• Which Eco Period Product Is For You?
• Petition: Make Period Products Free Throughout the UK
• Petition: Demand Free Menstrual Products in Public Schools
• Bolsonaro Blocks Plan to Give Free Menstrual Products to Disadvantaged Women

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