1/) It's #EnvironmenstrualWeek with @wen_uk, so we're talking period plastic and access to sustainable period care...

Access to sustainable period products is an environmental and social justice issue A thread

2/) The cheapest menstrual product options are often those with the most potential to damage our health and planet, which means people with the least power have the greatest exposure to dangerous products.

/3) Did you know that conventional sanitary pads contain a high percentage of plastic? One estimate is that pads are made of up to 90% plastic  – another is that a pack of menstrual pads is equivalent to 4 plastic bags.

/4) A lack of access to toxic-free sustainable period care and education has consequences for the health of people who menstruate and the Earth.

Not talking about periods means it’s difficult to tackle these issues openly and honestly.

/5) Want to cut the plastic from your period? Here are some suggestions...

#Environmentstrual #PlasticFreePeriods

/6) Speak Up

Government and companies who produce period products need to do more to kick their plastic habit! Use your voice to challenge them on social and through petitions.

/7) Bin it, don’t flush it

When flushed down the loo, pads and tampons can end up in the sea or on beaches.

/8) Switch to a cup

Menstrual cups are eco-friendly and can be a real money saver too. There is an upfront cost, but the savings over years are significant.

/9) Try period pants

Period pants are essentially leakproof underwear, so you won't need to wear a pad, a tampon or menstrual cup during your period, and you can reuse them each month.

/10) If you'd like to learn more you can read further on our website here or follow @wen_uk https://friendsoftheearth.uk/plastics/plastic-periods-menstrual-products-and-plastic-pollution