Samaan Lateef | New Delhi
In a world where secrecy, stigma, and stress have overshadowed menstruation, there is a growing recognition of the need to combat period poverty and expand access to menstrual health and hygiene management (MHHM).
The often-overlooked implications of inadequate MHHM for planetary health and environmental justice are now in the spotlight.
Climate Health Review delves into The Lancet study to understand the environmental impact of unsustainable menstrual hygiene products (MHPs), the crucial intersection of menstrual equity and climate action, and the importance of inclusive community-based solutions for environmentally friendly MHHM.
The environmental consequences of insufficient MHHM are concerning, particularly regarding the prevalent use of single-use menstrual products (SUMPs). The lifecycle of SUMPs, from production to disposal, poses significant environmental risks. Inadequate disposal practices lead to pollution of beaches, sewage systems, landfills, and water bodies, as well as the generation of harmful microplastics.
“Access to and availability of MHPs is inadequate for many women, girls, and transgender and non-binary people, particularly in low-income and middle-income countries and among vulnerable populations (eg, sexual or gender minorities and people experiencing homelessness, poverty, or incarceration) worldwide,” said a Lancet study.
With an estimated 500 million people globally still unable to access MHPs, menstrual inequity i.e; inadequate provision of affordable, accessible, and safe menstrual health and hygiene management [MHHM]) persists, it said.
In the past three decades, non-profit organisations, grassroot movements, entrepreneurs, and academics have tirelessly advocated to combat period poverty, expanding access to safe MHHM in some countries and settings, reveals The Lancet study.
Additionally, the chemicals involved in SUMP production are hazardous, posing risks to waste pickers and cleaning workers. Raising awareness about the environmental implications of MHHM is crucial, as many individuals are still unaware of the extent of the problem.
While single-use products may be more affordable in the short term, their long-term environmental impact is substantial. Sustainable alternatives, such as reusable menstrual products (RMPs), offer numerous benefits for menstrual health, equity, and the environment. By reducing skin irritation, household expenses, distribution challenges, and the overall environmental footprint, RMPs present a compelling case for adoption. However, it’s essential to address the socioeconomic and cultural contexts that can impede access and usage of RMPs. Equitable solutions must tackle stigma, improve water and sanitation infrastructure, and ensure universal access to safe MHHM.
The challenges surrounding inadequate MHHM are further exacerbated by climate change. Extreme weather events and climate-induced migration often disrupt access to MHPs, private spaces, and adequate sanitation and hygiene facilities. Recognizing the interconnected nature of climate action and menstrual equity is paramount. Gender equity plays a central role in addressing the climate crisis, as women have demonstrated unique approaches to energy consumption, resource management, and climate change priorities. Implementing proactive, gender-transformative policies is essential to ensure the inclusion of community expertise and experiences in decision-making processes.
To advance our understanding of menstrual inequity, collaborative research efforts involving community-led initiatives, grassroots organizations, and affected populations are critical. Research should focus on comparing the ecological impacts of different MHPs, identifying contextual factors that influence access and disposal of sustainable options, and exploring the associations between climate change, climate action, and menstrual inequity. By acknowledging the planetary health perspectives on menstruation, we can strive to reduce inequities and empower menstruating individuals as agents of change in climate mitigation and adaptation.
Addressing menstrual inequity and promoting sustainable MHHM is crucial for both social well-being and the health of our planet. By embracing inclusive community-based solutions, raising environmental awareness, and recognizing the interconnectedness of menstrual equity and climate action, we can forge a future where menstruation is celebrated, access to MHHM is equitable, and the well-being of individuals and the planet is safeguarded.
