20 billion pads are thrown away each year in the US alone. Add in Canada and the rest of the world and that makes periods pretty polluting... Many of us get into the routine of purchasing conventional feminine hygiene products, which come with a heavy environmental and financial cost.
Did you know? The average sanitary napkin contains the equivalent of 4 plastic bags worth of plastic.
Mainstream period products are single-use, meaning they end up going to a landfill once used. With so many low waste period products to choose from, swapping just one zero waste alternative in for your conventional product makes a huge difference to the planet and your pocket. Let's explore some of the options:
Image sourcing from left to right: @deniseferrerira.fit, @knixwear, @lunapads
Menstrual Cups Menstrual cups are different in that they don't absorb blood, they catch it, and can be worn for up to 12 hours at a time whilst reducing cramping. With a lifespan of 10 years, the $38 initial price tag is quickly saving you money in only about 6 cycles. DivaCup is a Canadian made and owned option, and are also from a certified B Corp, meaning they balance purpose and profit.
Period Panties (Not the kind you’re thinking!) A great alternative to liners, pads, and tampons, these remarkable panties have sewn in high-absorbency fabric. A great backup to the menstrual cup, it takes away any worry of leaks. Some options to explore include Thinx and Knix, (another proudly Canadian company)!
Reusable Cloth Pads These work just like disposable pads, except you wash them between uses - eliminating landfill waste. Made of organic cotton, reusable pads are something you can feel good about putting up against your skin, and you can usually find fun patterns to choose from. Check out Luna Pads - a Vancouver based company - where you can even take a quiz to find out the best products for your needs.
These zero waste period alternatives can be found locally at The Pink Spotted Goat in Vernon, Farm Bound Zero Waste in Kelowna, as well as some Pharmasave and London Drugs locations.
If you are not ready to make the jump to zero waste, switching from conventional to organic tampons and pads can also have a healthier impact on our environment. Organic options lessen the waste and pollution associated with conventional products such as pesticide use, bleached cotton and rayon, and increased packaging.
Giving Back Fortunately many of the companies who produce zero waste period products also have a mission of providing better access to feminine hygiene products to those less fortunate, giving you feel good vibes for making your own transition to a greener period.
Consider which option is best for you, and make the switch today!
Information and statistics used for this blog were sourced from: Going Zero Waste and Chatelaine.