When we talk about climate change, periods aren’t usually the first thing that come to mind. But here’s the kicker: the average menstruator will use up to 11,000 disposable products in their lifetime (ahpma) - most of which end up in landfill, incinerators, or floating in our oceans. That’s a whole lot of plastic for something that’s supposed to be natural.
So during Environmenstrual Week, we’re shining a light on how periods and the planet are connected - and what we can actually do about it, without guilt, shame, or greenwashing.
Periods and the planet - what’s the connection?
It’s easy to forget that something as personal as your period can have global consequences. But the truth is, disposable period products are packed with hidden waste. Most pads are up to 90% plastic, and tampons often come wrapped in layers of it - applicators, wrappers, strings, you name it. These single-use items are used for a few hours, then hang around for hundreds of years. They’re piling up in landfills, washing up on beaches, and breaking down into microplastics that end up in our oceans and soil.
Your cycle is natural. The waste that comes with it? Totally avoidable.
The environmental cost of disposable period products
Beyond the visible waste, there’s a whole hidden cost baked into every box of disposables. From the chemicals used to bleach tampons, to the fossil fuels behind plastic production, every step of the process leaves a footprint.
Manufacturing these products releases carbon emissions, uses tonnes of water, and contributes to toxic waste - all for something that’s used once and thrown away. It’s not just what ends up in the bin that matters - it’s everything it took to get it to the shelf.
Let’s break it down:
- Pads: Made with polyethylene, propylene, and super-absorbent polymers
- Tampons: Cotton + rayon bleached with chemicals
- Plastic applicators: Single-use and non-recyclable
- Microplastics: Washed into oceans, soil, and ecosystems
Oh, and that plastic pad wrapper you used in 2007? Still out there.
Why we’re talking about this during Environmenstrual Week
Environmenstrual Week is run by The Women’s Environmental Network (WEN), and it’s all about ditching the silence and the single-use waste.
Periods have been hidden in shame for decades - and so has the environmental impact. This week is about saying: enough. Let’s talk openly about period care, access, education, and the climate impact that comes with ignoring all of it.
Because caring about the planet doesn’t stop when you’re on your period. And making a better choice shouldn’t feel like a luxury.
The power of reusable period products
Here’s the good news: You have so many better options. And they’re not just better for the planet - they’re better for you too.
- Period pants (hi, we’re WUKA): No leaks, no landfill, no fuss
- Reusable pads: Wash, wear, repeat
- Menstrual cups: Last up to 10 years
When you switch to reusables, you're not just reducing waste - you're reclaiming control. You're saying no to overpriced, underperforming, plastic-wrapped mystery packs.
You’re saying: I deserve better.
We’re doing it differently
We’re not perfect - but we are proud to be part of the solution.
Here’s how we’re building a better period future:
- Certified B Corp - business as a force for good - read more here.
- Sustainable fabrics - including Tencel™ Modal, organic cotton & recycled nylon
- Carbon-conscious production - thoughtful design, less waste
- Reusable period underwear - built to last, fit real bodies, and actually work
Our mission? To make periods sustainable, stigma-free, and stress-free for everyone.
How you can help (without guilt or perfection)
This isn’t about being perfect. It’s about progress.
Here are 5 easy ways to take action:
- Try one reusable item (period pants are a great first step)
- Share this post with a mate, your school, or your teen
- Learn how to wash and care for reusables - it's easier than you think
- Support brands doing the work (not just saying they are)
- Get involved with Environmenstrual Week - start convos, host a workshop, or donate to menstrual equity causes
You don’t need to overhaul your life. Just start somewhere.
Periods are natural. Waste doesn’t have to be.
You’re already doing so much - showing up, learning, maybe even bleeding through it all.
Choosing a more sustainable period product is just one more way to say: I care. About my body. About the planet. About the future.
So whether you’re rocking your first WUKAs or still figuring it all out, know this - every choice matters. And no step is too small when it’s in the right direction.
🌍 Shop planet-friendly period wear:
Whether you’re navigating your first period or just tired of bins full of plastic wrappers, switching to reusables is one of the simplest ways to shrink your impact.
WUKA period pants are designed to be worn, washed, and loved - again and again. Our Basics™ range is perfect if you’re just getting started or shopping on a budget, while Stretch™ fits growing teens or anyone whose body isn’t the same size every day.
For PE days, gym sessions or just moving freely, Perform™ keeps up with your flow. And when you need extra support on heavier days, Ultimate™ High Waist has you covered with comfort, confidence, and zero leaks.
Related posts
WUKA Period Pants Save Over 500,000 Tampons and Pads from landfill and Ocean
How to Have a Sustainable Period at University
Five Reasons to Choose Period Pants Over Disposables