Buried Beneath: What 12,000 Disposable Pads In A Lifetime Mean For The Planet

Menstruation is a biological certainty and an essential aspect of women's lives. Yet, for long, society viewed menstrual hygiene as an afterthought. Nevertheless, increasing awareness and access have begun to rewrite that narrative across the world, particularly in India. Once suppressed by cultural taboos and stigma, the conversation around menstrual hygiene is now gaining visibility. Whether it's schools, offices or homes, both men and women are involved in open discussions concerning menstruation. This transition marks a significant leap towards dignity and equity for millions.

Meanwhile, underlying this significant transformation lurks the widespread adoption of disposable sanitary pads. While these pads stand as a symbol of empowerment and accessibility, they also come with a huge environmental cost. A single woman uses approximately 12,000 pads throughout her lifetime. Each pad takes nearly 800 years to decompose. What was the result? More than 100,000 tonnes of sanitary waste are created in India alone each year. Most of this sanitary waste gets accumulated in landfills, rivers, or, worse, open fields and sewage systems.

As the debate around menstrual health changes, so should the human approach. Given that real change requires more than just access—it also needs sustainability. Now is the moment to take action.

The Hidden Cost of Convenience
Disposable sanitary pads are typically seen as a convenient method of managing menstruation. But there are layers of plastic used in their production. This includes absorbent polymers, waterproof backings and adhesive strips—all resulting in a long-term waste issue. These materials do not just break down after disposal; they remain in landfills for years. In fact, they get degraded into toxic microplastics and seep poisons into the soil and water.

Moreover, improper disposal further exacerbates the damage. Pads flushed down toilets choke cities' sewer systems. Also, the ones thrown into open landfills or fields pose major health and sanitation risks. As these materials deteriorate, dioxins and other toxic chemicals are released. This, in turn, affects both human health and environment.

The Shift Towards Sustainable Solutions
Growing environmental consciousness has sparked a slight but important shift in menstrual product alternatives. Reusable pads and underclothing have grown in popularity as more individuals become aware of their long-term benefits. These products decompose within weeks and effectively align with the objectives of reducing single-use plastic. Not only this, but these products contribute towards circular waste systems. Apart from the environmental benefits, these menstrual hygiene products are also gentle on the body. As they are free of synthetic scents, colours and chemicals, they significantly reduce the risk of pelvic infection. Following this, these products promote a healthier and more holistic approach to period care.

Additionally, reusable sanitary products offer long-term cost savings. With appropriate upkeep, these products can even last for years. In places where cost is an issue, such alternatives are changing access and agency. Furthermore, the growth of local firms producing these goods empowers women via employment and education. This has further led to an increase in the growth of the industry. As per the Coherent Market Insights report, the Indian reusable pads market size is projected to reach USD 4928.3 billion by 2032.

In essence, the selection of a sanitary product may seem personal and inconsequential. However, when scaled throughout the population, it poses environmental, social and economic consequences. To effectively promote menstrual health, it is the need of the hour that the focus must shift from cleanliness to sustainability. With small steps and informed choices, every individual can reduce their carbon footprint and make a difference in improving the planet's health.

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