Disposing of Menstrual Waste Responsibly: Environmental Impacts and Solutions
For generations, the conversation around periods has been mostly confined to whispers, even though almost half the population menstruates at some point in their lives. As discussions around menstrual health and hygiene become more open and inclusive, one important aspect that still doesn’t receive enough attention is menstrual waste - how it is disposed of and the toll it takes on the environment.
Each menstruator uses an estimated 11,000 to 16,000 disposable sanitary products in their lifetime. When not disposed of responsibly, these products contribute to landfill overflow, soil pollution, and blocked sewage systems.
It's time we bring menstrual waste disposal into the mainstream of conversations around menstrual health and menstrual hygiene initiatives to build a more sustainable and healthier future for both individuals and the environment.
Understanding Menstrual Waste: What Does It Include?
Menstrual waste refers to the used products like sanitary napkins, tampons, panty liners, and menstrual hygiene packaging that are discarded after each use. These products often contain a mix of plastic, cotton, synthetic fibers, and absorbent gels, making them non-biodegradable and harmful when dumped irresponsibly.
Common Products That Contribute to Menstrual Waste:
- Disposable sanitary pads (mostly made with up to 90% plastic)
- Tampons with plastic applicators
- Panty liners
- Sanitary product packaging (plastic wraps, outer covers, etc.)
- Plastic disposal bags
- Cloth pads (when not cleaned or disposed of properly)
Menstrual hygiene is crucial for personal well-being, but it must go hand-in-hand with eco-conscious disposal practices for overall menstrual health and planetary health.
Environmental Impacts of Improper Menstrual Waste Disposal
While maintaining good menstrual hygiene is essential, we also need to ask: at what environmental cost? Let’s look at the key concerns arising from irresponsible menstrual waste disposal.
1. Non-Biodegradability of Pads and Tampons
Most commercial pads and tampons are made of plastic components and superabsorbent polymers, taking 500 to 800 years to decompose. Once disposed of in landfills or open environments, these products contribute to long-term waste buildup.
2. Toxic Emissions from Burning
In many rural areas, burning menstrual waste is a common practice. However, burning pads releases toxic fumes like dioxins and furans, harmful to both humans and the ecosystem.
3. Water and Soil Pollution
When menstrual waste is flushed down toilets or dumped in water bodies, it clogs pipes, contaminates water sources, and pollutes the soil. This is especially dangerous in areas lacking proper waste management systems.
4. Health Hazards to Sanitation Workers
Used menstrual products, when mixed with regular waste, expose sanitation workers to infectious diseases and unhygienic conditions. Handling unsorted sanitary waste without protective equipment puts their health and dignity at risk.
Why the Menstrual Health and Menstrual Hygiene Initiative Must Include Waste Awareness
While the core of any menstrual health and menstrual hygiene initiative is to ensure access to clean products, awareness, and safe practices, the conversation must go a step further. The way we manage menstrual waste is deeply connected to how we view and value menstruating bodies.
Ignoring this aspect continues the cycle of shame, secrecy, and environmental neglect.
- Educating young menstruators on proper disposal methods can empower them to make eco-friendly choices.
- Encouraging sustainable alternatives ensures long-term menstrual health without harming the environment.
- Supporting communities with local disposal solutions is an essential part of menstrual dignity.
Ujaas, through its outreach and education, stands for such a holistic approach to menstrual well-being.
How to Dispose of Menstrual Waste Responsibly
There are several ways to handle menstrual waste more sustainably. From using the right disposal methods to adopting eco-friendly products, small steps can lead to a big impact.
A. Safe Disposal Methods for Traditional Products
If you’re using conventional pads or tampons, here’s how to dispose of them responsibly:
- Wrap in Paper: Wrap used products in toilet paper or newspaper. Avoid plastic as it delays decomposition further.
- Use Dedicated Disposal Bins: If available, use sanitary napkin incinerators or dedicated bins. Don’t mix with wet kitchen waste.
- Do Not Flush: Never flush pads or tampons. They clog pipes and harm marine ecosystems.
- Label Waste Clearly: If possible, label sanitary waste while disposing so it can be handled carefully by waste workers.
B. Explore Sustainable Menstrual Products
Switching to sustainable menstrual options can significantly reduce menstrual waste generation.
1. Menstrual Cups
- Made of medical-grade silicone
- Reusable for 5–10 years
- Minimal environmental impact
- Needs cleaning after each cycle
2. Reusable Cloth Pads
- Washable and lasts for 2–3 years
- Made with natural, biodegradable fabrics
- Less plastic content
3. Period Panties
- Built-in absorbent layers
- Can be reused after washing
- Comfortable and eco-friendly
These alternatives not only align with better menstrual health but also ensure we leave behind less waste for the planet to deal with.
Challenges in Managing Menstrual Waste in India
Despite growing awareness, several challenges remain in tackling menstrual waste effectively.
1. Lack of Awareness
Many menstruators, especially in underserved areas, are unaware of proper disposal techniques or the environmental implications of improper disposal.
2. Poor Waste Segregation
Menstrual waste is usually not separated from household waste, making it difficult to treat safely and hygienically.
3. Limited Access to Sustainable Products
High upfront costs or lack of availability restrict access to eco-friendly menstrual products, particularly in rural or economically weaker communities.
4. Cultural Taboos
Deep-rooted menstrual taboos prevent open discussions around menstrual health and hygiene, leading to secrecy and incorrect disposal habits.
Policy and Community-Level Recommendations
To bring real change, efforts must move beyond individual behavior to community and policy interventions.
- School-Based Menstrual Health Education: Include modules on menstrual hygiene and waste disposal in the school curriculum.
- Government Subsidies for Sustainable Products: Reduce GST on eco-friendly menstrual products and make them widely accessible.
- Urban and Rural Disposal Units: Install incinerators or sanitary bins in public toilets and schools.
- Waste Worker Training: Provide protective gear and awareness training to sanitation workers handling menstrual waste.
Final Thoughts: Sustainability Is a Part of Menstrual Health
The way we manage menstrual waste is as important as the products we use. Menstruation is natural, so its waste management must be too. Through better awareness, access to sustainable products, and open conversations, we can shift from short-term solutions to long-term menstrual dignity.
A menstrual health and menstrual hygiene initiative is not just about providing products; it's about empowering menstruators with the knowledge and confidence to care for themselves and their surroundings.
At Ujaas, founded by Advaitesha Birla, the mission is to create sustainable, informed, and stigma-free menstruation for all. Ujaas works to ensure every girl understands not just how to manage her period, but how to do so with dignity and environmental consciousness.