Single-use plastic in period products

By Nina Notman2021-03-08T13:35:00

An illustration showing different types of period products, from pads to tampons to cups

Source: © runLenarun/iStock/Getty Images

Forget bags and straws. Disposable period products are a much great contributor to the amount of plastic littering our environment

Disposable period pads contain up to 90% plastic and tampons up to 6%, excluding applicators. With the average menstruating person using over 11,000 disposable pads and tampons over a lifetime, that adds up to an awful lot of plastic waste.

This article looks at the composition and environmental impact of disposables compared to biodegradable and reusable alternatives, as well as the campaigners and entrepreneurs working to take single-use plastic out of periods. It considers the life-cycle analysis of these products and includes a related classroom activity for the 14–16 age group.

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