Reusable sanitary pads and sustainability

Safe, affordable menstrual products are essential for anyone who menstruates. But around the world, millions can’t afford to buy - or don’t have reliable access to - the safe menstrual products they need.

The use of conventional, disposable menstrual products is harming the environment. Most sanitary pads contain up to 90% plastic,1  while tampons have plastic applicators and sometimes come in individual plastic wrappers. The production of plastic and improper disposal of these products is causing pollution and filling up landfills.

This is why, in many of the world's poorest countries, ActionAid provides training in how to make reusable sanitary pads, which are affordable and sustainable.

Find out how we are supporting communities around the world with a life-changing skill and helping to protect the environment at the same time. 

What's the benefit of reusable menstrual products?

Better health 

In many countries around the world, women, girls and people who menstruate are often forced to use improvised materials to manage their periods, including rags, newspapers and even tree leaves2 . 

For those can't access menstrual products, many have no choice but to re-use the same one for many days. In both instances there is a serious health risk.

Better access to education and work

Lack of access to menstrual products has both short and long-term repercussions for women, girls and people who menstruate.

Period poverty, including the stigma that often surrounds menstruation, stops many people from going to school or work, leading them to miss out on their education or vital income to support themselves and their families.

In the long run, a lack of education can have several devastating impacts on a girl's life, including the possibility of child marriage, early pregnancy and vulnerability to violence and abuse. 

Lower costs

Disposable sanitary pads are expensive. A pack of sanitary pads can cost more than a whole day’s pay in Malawi.

Since most women, girls and people who menstruate need at least two packs per period, this means spending two days’ pay every month on sanitary pads alone.3

Why are conventional menstrual products bad for the environment?

Mass-produced menstrual products are disposable and contain plastic and other non-biodegradable materials that are harmful to the environment.

Pads are made of 90% plastic while tampons have at least 6% plastic1 . This large-scale plastic production releases vast amounts of greenhouse gases, which cause air pollution and global warming.

In addition, the improper disposal of menstrual products (like wrapping them in plastic bags) fills up landfills and takes years to biodegrade.

Some menstrual products are also flushed down the toilet, which could mean that disposable pads and tampons can end up in our seas and washed up on our beaches. This has a detrimental effect on humans, the wildlife and our habitats. 

How can we improve access to reusable period products?

ActionAid provides training in how to make safe, washable and reusable sanitary pads, so people always have access to safe menstrual protection, can help protect the environment, and can create a small income for themselves and their families by selling their extra products at the market.