Bringing the message across on the life cycle impacts of menstrual products
In October, the Life Cycle Initiative joined Environmenstrual Week 2021 by presenting the LCA meta-study on single-use menstrual products and their alternatives during the webinar entitled “What About Periods”, organized by Zero Waste Europe. The aim of the webinar was to open the discussion about the different issues that afflict single-use menstrual products such as tampons and sanitary pads.
The report reviews Life Cycle Assessments of single-use menstrual products and their alternatives. It finds that reusable menstrual products have a lower environmental impact than single-use menstrual products. Especially the reusable menstrual cup is substantively better for the environment than other product options.
Menstruation is a taboo subject in many cultures and geographies; thus, it is important to take great care when trying to drive social acceptance towards reusable menstrual products. Working with governments and policymakers on moving towards reusable menstrual products by leaning on their environmental impact and health benefits can address the stigma associated with menstruation and menstrual products.
Read more here.