Reusable cloth towels provide a sustainable substitute as they are made from biodegradable materials such as cotton.
Although the menstrual cycle is a normal phenomenon, the long decomposition times of conventional sanitary items cause environmental pollution.
Menstruation is a natural part of life for many women, but it can have a significant impact on the environment. Disposable sanitary pads, for example, take between 500 and 800 years to biodegrade due to the special plastics and polymers used in their production. This prolonged decomposition period contributes to the build-up of waste and pollution. Reusable cloth pads, on the other hand, offer a more sustainable alternative, reducing the environmental footprint of menstruation.
The environmental impact of disposable sanitary pads
Disposable sanitary pads are a major source of waste and pollution. In India alone, the annual waste generated by menstrual products is estimated to be 113,000 tonnes. This waste is often disposed of improperly, resulting in clogged drains and toilets around the world. In addition, the production of disposable sanitary pads involves the use of non-biodegradable plastics, which can cause harm to the environment and human health.
The benefits of cloth pads
On the other hand, cloth pads are a viable and eco-friendly option. They are made from natural materials such as cotton, which is biodegradable and healthy for a woman's body. Cloth pads can be washed and reused multiple times, reducing the need for disposable products and the subsequent waste they create. Additionally, cloth pads are often less expensive for consumers in the long run, although there may be an upfront cost to consider.
Creative solutions for an ecological menstruation:
- Cloth Towel Initiatives:Organizations are working to make cloth pads more accessible to women. These initiatives involve turning old clothes into pads, reducing the cost and promoting sustainability.
- Adopting the menstrual cup:Menstrual cups are another reusable option that can last up to 12 years. They are safe, easy to use, and can be washed and reused multiple times, reducing waste and environmental impact.
- Education and Awareness:Educating women about the environmental impact of disposable sanitary pads and promoting the use of reusable products can lead to significant behavioural changes. Public awareness campaigns and workshops can help destigmatise sustainable menstrual practices and encourage women to adopt eco-friendly alternatives.
- Policy support:Governments and organizations can support sustainable menstruation by implementing policies that promote the use of reusable products and reduce waste. This can include providing access to menstrual products, especially in rural areas, and extending liability to sanitary pad manufacturers.
- Community involvement:Community-based initiatives, which empower Adivasi women to design and create cloth pads, can help spread awareness and promote sustainable menstrual practices in local communities.
- Affordable options:Inexpensive, reusable cloth towels can be purchased by pricing them competitively and making them available through local stores and social media.
- Hygiene and Comfort:Cloth pads can be designed to be soft, easy to use and washable, making them a healthier and more comfortable option compared to disposable sanitary pads.
- Product innovation:Innovative products with almost 100% compostable and biodegradable sanitary pads can provide women and girls in rural villages and urban areas access to a sustainable solution.
- Access to menstrual products:Providing access to affordable and sustainable menstrual hygiene products (e.g. menstrual pads, reusable sanitary napkins, disposable sanitary napkins, menstrual cups and tampons) is key to improving menstrual health and hygiene.
Conclusion
Eco-friendly menstruation is not only a viable option, but a necessary step towards reducing waste and pollution. By adopting reusable products, such as cloth pads and menstrual cups, women can significantly reduce their environmental footprint. Furthermore, education, awareness, and policy support can help promote sustainable menstrual practices and create a greener society.
(Contributions from Dr Tejal Kanwar, Gynaecologist and Consultant at Ujaas, a menstrual health and hygiene management social enterprise)
