Alexei Volkov
Tampons and pads are a major contributor to plastic pollution. Disposable pads contain up to 90% plastic, while tampons are often packaged with plastic applicators. A study by Middlesex University found that 12 out of 24 tampon brands contained synthetic plastic fibres, with 7 of those brands shedding plastic microfibres. This is concerning as there is little information on the potential health risks of plastic microfibres entering the body. The environmental impact is also significant, with millions of menstrual items being flushed down the toilet each day, causing sewer blockages and polluting oceans and beaches. Campaigns against plastic in menstrual products have gained traction, with some successes in removing plastic tampon applicators and providing eco-friendly products.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic in tampons | A study by Middlesex University found that 12 out of 24 tampon brands contained synthetic plastic fibres. |
| Plastic applicators | Tampons with plastic applicators contribute to plastic pollution. |
| Plastic microfibres | Tampons can shed plastic microfibres, which may pose health risks. |
| Alternative options | Eco-friendly tampons, reusable applicators, period pants, and menstrual cups are some alternatives to plastic tampons. |
| Government initiatives | The Welsh Government has committed to spending funding on eco-friendly period products. |
| Education | Unbiased lessons about period products are being taught in schools to raise awareness about the environmental impact of flushing menstrual products. |
| Consumer awareness | Campaigns and petitions are raising awareness about the presence of plastic in tampons and calling for ingredient transparency. |
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What You'll Learn
Tampons can contain plastic fibres and chemicals
While tampons without plastic applicators are better for the environment, a study by Middlesex University found that tampons can contain plastic fibres. The study tested 24 tampon brands, 12 of which contained synthetic plastic fibres, and 7 of which shed these plastic microfibres. This is concerning as there is no regulation in place that rules out the use of plastics in tampons or requires manufacturers to list ingredients in full.
The presence of plastic in tampons poses a potential health risk to users. The vaginal mucosa is a permeable, multi-layered tissue that can be affected by the release of plastic particles. The continuous use of cosmetics with incorporated plastic particles has been linked to premature ageing of skin cells, and the same may be true for vaginal tissue. The study by Middlesex University estimates that up to 155 quintillion of these nanoplastic fibres are shed each year, polluting the environment and potentially impacting human health.
In addition to plastic fibres, tampons may also contain chemicals and pesticides. A US study found that non-organic rayon-based tampons contained chemicals such as paint stripper, as well as chemical absorbers, fillers, lubricants, and residues from the bleaching process. Synthetic fragrances in tampons can also be made from a cocktail of up to 3,900 chemicals, according to the Chem Fatale report.
The inclusion of plastic in tampons contributes to plastic pollution. Tampons are often flushed down the toilet, causing sewer blockages and ending up in the sea and on beaches. Plastic breaks down into smaller pieces, known as microplastics, which can be ingested by marine life and enter the food chain. To reduce the environmental impact of tampons, individuals can switch to plastic-free alternatives such as eco-friendly tampons, reusable pads, menstrual cups, cloth pads, and period pants.
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Plastic applicators are unnecessary and harmful to the environment
Plastic tampon applicators are harmful to the environment. They are frequently found polluting Canadian shorelines and British beaches and waterways. They are also found in sewage systems, where they cause blockages. Plastic applicators are not biodegradable and take a long time to degrade, so they are a significant source of single-use plastic pollution.
The use of plastic in menstrual products is unnecessary, and there are alternative options available. For example, cardboard applicators are a more environmentally friendly option, as they are biodegradable. However, some people find cardboard applicators uncomfortable and prefer the comfort and ease of use of plastic applicators. Nevertheless, plastic applicators are not essential and contribute to the growing problem of plastic pollution.
Environmental campaigners such as Ella Daish and Rochelle Byrne have called for an end to plastic tampon applicators, urging manufacturers and retailers to take responsibility and bring about change. Their campaigns have led to several major UK retailers, including Sainsbury's, Aldi, Superdrug, and Lil-Lets, removing plastic applicators from their own-brand tampons. These campaigns have also prompted conversations about the hidden plastic in period products and the need for greener alternatives.
To reduce the environmental impact of menstrual products, individuals can switch to plastic-free options, such as eco-friendly tampons with cardboard applicators, reusable applicators, or period pants. It is also important to properly dispose of applicators and other menstrual products to reduce plastic pollution. Overall, plastic tampon applicators are unnecessary and contribute to the growing problem of plastic pollution, and there are more sustainable alternatives available.
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Organic and plastic-free tampons are an alternative
Disposable pads and tampons are a major contributor to plastic pollution. They contain up to 90% plastic, including in their sticky strips and applicators. These products are flooding our oceans, blocking our waterways, and polluting our earth.
However, organic and plastic-free tampons are an alternative. Tampon Tribe, for example, offers plastic-free, organic cotton tampons that are toxin-free, chlorine-bleach-free, and use biodegradable and compostable packaging. Viv also offers 100% organic cotton tampons that are toxin-free, with a smooth and comfortable BPA-free plastic applicator. These products are free of harmful chemicals and uncomfortable plastic, providing a safe, healthy, and eco-friendly period experience.
In addition to plastic-free tampons, there are other sustainable options for menstruation. Reusable pads, period pants, and menstrual cups are all eco-friendly alternatives that can help reduce plastic pollution. These products are made with organic materials, such as bamboo and corn fibers, which reduce agro-waste and break down much faster than traditional products.
Campaigners like Ella Daish have successfully advocated for retailers to remove plastic tampon applicators, and for governments to fund eco-friendly period products in schools and colleges. These efforts demonstrate a growing awareness of the environmental and health impacts of plastic in menstrual products, and the importance of providing sustainable alternatives.
By choosing organic and plastic-free tampons, or other reusable options, individuals can take direct action to reduce their environmental impact and contribute to a healthier planet.
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Tampons are a common item found polluting British beaches
The Marine Conservation Society has found a large increase in sewage-related debris on British beaches, including hundreds of tampons and applicators. This has inspired campaigns such as #PlasticFreePeriod and "Sea-ing Red" to raise awareness about the harmful impact of period waste on the UK's marine environment.
Disposable tampons often contain plastics, with some studies finding that they can contain up to 90% plastic. These plastics contribute to the growing issue of plastic pollution, as they do not break down easily and can take up to 500 years to fully decompose.
To reduce the impact of period waste on the environment, individuals can switch to plastic-free and reusable alternatives, such as eco-friendly tampons, menstrual cups, cloth pads, and period pants. Some companies, like Dame, a British organic menstrual product company, have developed reusable tampon applicators to offer more sustainable options for individuals who prefer tampons.
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Tampons can be disposed of by flushing, incineration or landfill
Tampons can be disposed of in a few different ways, including flushing, incineration, or landfill. However, it is important to note that flushing tampons is not recommended as it can cause plumbing issues and sewer blockages. In fact, two billion period products are flushed down toilets in the UK each year, resulting in 75% of blocked drains and £14 billion in removal costs. Instead, it is suggested to wrap tampons in toilet paper or a facial tissue and throw them into a bin. Many public restrooms have small metal receptacles for sanitary products, and if not, it is recommended to use a bin outside the toilet stall.
The average user throws away 125 to 150 kg of tampons, pads, and applicators in their lifetime, and in the US alone, 7 million tampons and 12 billion pads pollute landfills annually. Tampons and pads can take centuries to degrade in a landfill, especially when wrapped in plastic, and the chemicals they contain, such as chlorine and rayon, can leach into the groundwater and air, causing pollution. Incineration is another method of tampon disposal, but it can result in the release of potentially dangerous chemicals from the combustion process, which can contribute to air emissions and groundwater contamination.
To reduce the environmental impact of tampon disposal, individuals can opt for eco-friendly and organic menstrual products, such as reusable pads, period underwear, and menstrual cups. These alternatives are more sustainable and can help reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills and incineration facilities. Additionally, biodegradable and plastic-free tampons are available, which do not contribute to plastic pollution. By choosing these options, individuals can minimise their carbon footprint and contribute to a greener planet.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, most tampons have plastic in them. The plastic is found in the applicator, the wrapper, the string, and even inside the tampon itself.
Plastic is used in tampons for various reasons, including improving their design and functionality. For example, plastic applicators make insertion easier, and plastic wrappers ensure hygiene and prevent bacterial contamination.
Yes, there are organic and plastic-free tampon options available. These are usually made from biodegradable materials like cardboard or paper and are free from chemicals and fragrances. Reusable menstrual cups, such as the Mooncup, are also a popular eco-friendly alternative.
