The Shocking Truth About Tampons And Plastic

Menstrual products are a major contributor to the global plastic crisis. Tampons, for example, are often wrapped in plastic, encased in plastic applicators, and have plastic strings. Many even include a thin layer of plastic in the absorbent part. This has resulted in millions of menstrual items being flushed down toilets daily, causing sewer blockages and ending up in the ocean. The plastic in tampons can take up to 500 years to break down, leading to a significant environmental impact. With the average person who menstruates throwing away up to 200 kg of menstrual products in their lifetime, it is essential to address the plastic content in tampons and explore more sustainable alternatives.

Plastic tampon applicators

The shift towards plastic applicators occurred in the 1960s and 1970s, when manufacturers sought new markets for their materials. Plastic was moulded into thin, flexible, rounded shapes, ideal for tampon applicators. Today, plastic applicators are common, with many tampons also wrapped in plastic. This shift has resulted in a generation of women reliant on plastic-centric products, with plastic found in the absorbent part, strings, and packaging.

The environmental impact of plastic applicators is substantial, with beach clean-ups in New Jersey in 2013 collecting thousands of tampon applicators. This waste, often ending up in oceans, has severe ecological consequences, with an estimated 4.8 pieces of menstrual waste, including applicators, found per 100 metres of beach cleaned.

To reduce plastic waste, biodegradable cardboard or reusable tampon applicators are recommended. Reusable applicators are environmentally friendly and, when properly sanitised, offer a hygienic alternative. Additionally, organic cotton tampons, free from rayon, fragrances, dyes, and chlorine bleach, provide an eco-friendly option.

The issue of plastic tampon applicators highlights the need for sustainable alternatives and proper waste disposal methods to minimise environmental harm.

Plastic tampon wrappers

The use of plastic wrapping on tampons is often justified on the grounds of hygiene and discretion. Plastic wrapping can help keep the tampon sterile and prevent bacterial contamination. It can also make the tampon easier to insert by preventing the expansion of the organic cotton inside. Additionally, plastic wrappers can be designed to be silent when opened, allowing for discreet use.

However, plastic tampon wrappers contribute to the growing problem of plastic pollution. Plastic applicators and wrappers can take up to 500 years to break down and often end up in landfills or the ocean, where they contribute to environmental degradation. Even biodegradable plant-based plastics have their drawbacks, as they are often not recyclable or biodegradable, and they may not effectively prevent bacterial contamination.

Some companies are making efforts to reduce the plastic content of their products and packaging. For example, some brands offer cardboard or paper wrappers for their tampons, although these may be more susceptible to contamination or damage. Other brands have introduced compostable or recyclable plastic wrappers, although these materials may still contribute to plastic pollution if not properly disposed of.

The issue of plastic tampon wrappers highlights the complex trade-offs between hygiene, convenience, and environmental sustainability in the design of menstrual products. While plastic wrappers may provide certain benefits, there is a growing need to find sustainable alternatives that reduce the environmental impact of these products.

Plastic in the absorbent part of tampons

Plastic has become a staple in the design of tampons and pads, with most menstrual products containing plastics. The reasons for this are varied and complex, ranging from culture and shame to scientific and technological advancements. The presence of plastic in these products has significant environmental implications, contributing to the plastic epidemic and ending up in landfills, oceans, and even our food systems.

One of the primary concerns regarding plastic in tampons is the plastic applicator. These applicators are often made of plastic and are not recyclable due to contamination with bodily fluids. As a result, they end up in landfills or are flushed down the toilet, causing sewer blockages and polluting the oceans. Even 'sugarcane' or 'eco plastic' applicators contribute to this issue, emphasizing the importance of careful consideration when choosing sustainable options.

However, it is not just the applicator that contains plastic. The absorbent part of tampons, which is typically made of tightly packed cotton, may also have a thin layer of plastic. This plastic layer helps hold the cotton together and can be challenging to replace with more sustainable materials. Additionally, the string attached to the tampon may be made of materials such as polyester or polypropylene, further adding to the plastic content.

To address the environmental impact of plastic in tampons, some companies offer organic cotton tampons without plastic applicators or wrapping. These companies prioritize sustainability and natural, renewable materials. Reusable menstrual products, such as menstrual cups, washable pads, or period underwear, provide eco-friendly and cost-effective alternatives to plastic-based disposable options. However, the cheapest options are often the most damaging to both health and the environment, creating a social and environmental justice issue.

Plastic strings

Tampons come with plastic strings dangling from one end, and these are used to remove the tampon from the body. The string is often made of polyester or polypropylene, which are types of plastic. These plastic strings are then flushed down the toilet, contributing to sewer blockages and ending up in the ocean, polluting the environment.

Some companies, such as Natracare, offer plastic-free alternatives to tampons with plastic strings. Natracare's tampons use biodegradable cardboard or reusable tampon applicators and do not have plastic strings. Their products are also carbon neutral and produced in a facility powered by renewable energy.

Another alternative to plastic tampon strings is to use a menstrual cup, which is a reusable product that captures menstrual flow rather than absorbing it. These cups are eco-friendly and can also save money in the long run. Washable pads or period underwear are also options for those who prefer not to use tampons.

Plastic waste and pollution

Tampons, for example, are often wrapped in plastic and may have plastic applicators, strings made of plastic, or even a thin layer of plastic within the absorbent part. These plastic components are designed for single-use and are typically not recyclable due to contamination with bodily fluids. As a result, they end up in landfills or are improperly flushed down toilets, contributing to sewer blockages and ocean pollution. It is estimated that millions of menstrual items are flushed down toilets daily, and on average, 4.8 pieces of menstrual waste, including pads, panty liners, backing strips, tampons, and applicators, are found per 100 meters of beach cleaned.

Pads are also major contributors to plastic pollution. A study found that a pack of conventional period pads contains the equivalent of up to 5 plastic carrier bags in plastic content. On average, there are 36 grams of plastic in every packet of period pads, with 2.4 grams of plastic per pad and 2.5 grams for the outer packaging. This amounts to a significant amount of plastic waste, considering that the average person who menstruates disposes of up to 200 kg of menstrual products in their lifetime.

The use of plastic in menstrual products is not just an environmental concern but also a health concern. Conventional plastic-filled pads can irritate the skin and cause discomfort. Additionally, there is a lack of transparency regarding the ingredients and additives used in menstrual products, with studies finding that non-organic rayon-based tampons contain chemicals such as paint strippers, chemical absorbers, fillers, and lubricants.

To address the issue of plastic waste and pollution in menstrual care, some companies offer organic and plastic-free alternatives. These products are made from natural materials such as organic cotton and wood pulp, which are biodegradable and breathable, providing a more comfortable and healthy option. Reusable menstrual products, such as menstrual cups, washable pads, or period underwear, are also eco-friendly and cost-effective solutions. While these options may not be suitable for everyone, it is important to have plastic-free choices readily available and marketed to consumers.

Overall, the issue of plastic waste and pollution in menstrual care is a complex one, involving cultural, social, and scientific factors. By raising awareness, promoting sustainable alternatives, and advocating for transparent ingredient disclosure, we can work towards reducing the environmental and health impacts of plastic in menstrual care products.

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