Ethan Clarke
Plastic tampon applicators are a major source of plastic pollution, with environmental activists campaigning for greener alternatives. In 2019, Sainsbury's stopped producing plastic applicators for its own-brand tampons, removing 2.7 tonnes of plastic annually. While tampons with plastic applicators are widely available in North America, they are less common in Europe. In Poland, tampons and pads are readily available in most supermarkets and pharmacies, but it is unclear whether these include plastic applicators. This article aims to explore the availability of tampons with plastic applicators in Poland and discuss the impact of single-use plastics in menstrual products.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Availability of tampons with plastic applicators in Poland | Limited availability; most tampons are without applicators or have cardboard applicators |
| Best places to find tampons in Poland | Supermarkets and pharmacies in Warsaw and throughout the country |
| Other European countries where tampons with plastic applicators are available | France, Croatia, the UK, and Sweden |
| Countries where tampons with plastic applicators are not common | Germany, Finland, Portugal, Greece, and Romania |
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What You'll Learn
Tampons with plastic applicators are available in Poland at Carrefour
While tampons with plastic applicators are available in Poland, it is worth noting that plastic period products are a significant source of single-use plastic pollution. Environmental activists, such as Ella Daish, have campaigned against single-use plastics in period products, calling on manufacturers to develop greener alternatives. Some companies have responded to these concerns by eliminating plastic applicators from their own-brand tampons or creating biodegradable tampons made from alternative materials like seaweed.
In some countries, tampons with plastic applicators may be less readily available. For example, in Germany, tampons with applicators are challenging to find and are considered unpopular. Similarly, in France, tampons without applicators are more widely available, while those with cardboard applicators can be found in major cities.
When travelling abroad, it is always a good idea to pack a small stash of pads and/or tampons in your luggage for emergencies. This way, you can avoid the stress of searching for feminine hygiene products in unfamiliar locations. By planning ahead, you can focus on enjoying your vacation without any distractions or surprises.
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Environmental concerns about plastic tampon applicators
Plastic tampon applicators are a significant source of plastic pollution. They are frequently found during shoreline cleanups across Canada, including on the beaches of Lake Ontario, and in the UK, from the River Clyde to the Isles of Scilly. This is because many people flush their applicators down the toilet, which can overwhelm sewage systems, leading to applicators flowing with storm surges directly into waterways.
In 2019, the European Union passed a law banning several single-use plastic items, but it did not include tampons, pads, or applicators. While the law now requires companies to mark these products as containing plastic and provide information on their correct disposal, environmentalists continue to push for an end to plastic tampon applicators.
One such activist is Ella Daish, who founded the #EndPeriodPlastic campaign. Daish has called on the world's bestselling tampon manufacturer, Procter & Gamble, to reduce and remove plastic from its period products, develop reusable options, and prioritise ending single-use plastic tampon applicators. Procter & Gamble has stated that it agrees with Daish's concerns and is working to address plastic pollution while balancing consumer needs.
Some retailers and manufacturers have also taken steps to reduce plastic waste. In 2019, Sainsbury's announced it would stop producing plastic applicators for its own-brand tampons, removing 2.7 tonnes of plastic annually. This move was followed by Aldi, Superdrug, and Lil-Lets. However, other major tampon manufacturers, such as Tampax and Kotex, have not committed to phasing out plastic applicators, citing consumer preferences for ease of use and comfort.
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Plastic tampon applicators are common in the USA
Plastic applicators are popular among women as they feel they have more control over where the tampon goes. Cotton tampons with plastic applicators are the most popular. However, some people are concerned about the environmental impact of single-use plastic applicators, which take hundreds of years to decompose. Environmental activists have called on tampon manufacturers to make greener alternatives and reduce the use of plastic in their products.
In Europe, some countries like Germany, France, and Portugal offer limited options for tampons with plastic applicators. In Germany, tampons with applicators are difficult to find and are unpopular, while in France, tampons with cardboard applicators are available in major cities, but plastic applicators are rarely sold. In Portugal, tampons are usually sold without an applicator.
Some UK supermarkets, such as Sainsbury's, Aldi, and Superdrug, have stopped producing plastic applicators for their own-brand tampons to reduce plastic waste. However, some people still prefer plastic applicators when they are out in nature or do not have access to proper washing facilities, as they find it more hygienic.
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Germany has tampons without applicators
Tampons without applicators are widely available in Germany. The most common brand is OB, which is a German brand. While tampons with applicators are available in Germany, they are less common and often found on lower shelves in supermarkets. In smaller stores, they may not be available at all.
In recent years, a German startup called Vyld has created biodegradable tampons made from seaweed that do not require an applicator. The tampon, named "Kelpon", is made from a biopolymer extracted from marine algae and processed into fibres. The natural sliminess of seaweed means that the tampon can be inserted without an applicator. Vyld's head of tampon, Melanie Schichan, has stated that 71% of menstruating women use disposable tampons, but around 41% would choose reusable menstruation products if they could decide which product is most suitable for them.
In Poland, tampons are widely available in supermarkets and pharmacies. The best range of tampons is offered by Carrefour in Warsaw. It is unclear whether tampons with or without plastic applicators are more common in Poland.
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Biodegradable tampons made from seaweed don't need applicators
Plastic pollution is a pressing issue, and single-use plastics in period products are a significant contributor. Environmental activist Ella Daish has campaigned against plastic tampon applicators, urging manufacturers to develop greener alternatives. In response, some companies, such as Sainsbury's, Aldi, Superdrug, and Lil-Lets, have taken steps to eliminate plastic applicators from their own-brand tampons.
In this context, a German startup called Vyld has introduced a novel approach to tackling plastic waste by creating biodegradable tampons made from seaweed. Founded in 2021 by Ines Schiller (CEO) and Melanie Schichan (Head of Tampon), Vyld's tampons, named "Kelpon," are made from a biopolymer extracted from marine algae. This biopolymer is processed into fibres and produced similarly to traditional tampons.
One of the key advantages of seaweed-based tampons is their biodegradability. Seaweed, like plants, absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and produces oxygen. Additionally, seaweed is naturally slimy and remains silky when made into fibres, eliminating the need for a plastic applicator. This makes Vyld's tampons not only environmentally friendly but also comfortable and easy to use.
Vyld's commitment to sustainability goes beyond their innovative use of seaweed. They are also working on developing seaweed-based biodegradable alternatives for the tampon cover, which is currently made of plastic. Furthermore, Vyld aims to encourage seaweed cultivation in Europe, promoting sustainable practices in menstrual product manufacturing.
The shift towards eco-friendly menstrual products is crucial for reducing waste and promoting a healthier planet. Vyld's seaweed-based tampons offer a promising biodegradable alternative, and their long-term vision, the Algaeverse, showcases their dedication to creating a universe of sustainable products based on seaweed. With about 100 women testing the product, Vyld's tampons have received positive feedback, highlighting the benefits of seaweed's natural properties and ease of insertion.
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