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Can Disposable Period Care Be Good for the Planet?

Updated: Dec 12, 2023


An open palm holds a crumpled disposablejoni period care wrapper that is certified compostable.

In the midst of a climate crisis, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and disheartened about the state of our planet. We're flipping the script and taking a moment to celebrate our progress toward a sustainable future. While there's much work to be done, it's crucial to recognize and appreciate every step taken in the right direction—especially eco-friendly period care. In this blog post, we'll delve into the importance of celebrating small victories and how joni is making a difference by offering eco-friendly, organic, and plastic-free period care products.


Is Sustainable Period Care Important?


In short, yes it is. Disposable menstrual care pads and tampons use a lot of plastic made from petroleum. Over the course of a lifetime, one person who menstruates may use up to 10,000 disposable period care products. In North America alone, the total amount of products dumped in landfills each year equals 20 billion. These products take hundreds of years to break down. That means the first applicator tampon ever made still hasn't broken down! Reducing the impact of our period care products can make a huge difference.


Finding the Right Sustainable Period Care


Sustainable alternatives like reusable pads, period underwear, and menstrual cups have gained popularity in recent years, and rightfully so, as they significantly reduce waste and environmental impact. But there are many reasons why someone may prefer to use disposable period care:

  1. Irritation: Some people experience irritation or allergies to certain materials, making reusable options uncomfortable.

  2. Ability: People with certain physical or motor disabilities may find it challenging to use reusable period products effectively.

  3. Trauma: For those who have experienced traumatic events related to their menstrual cycle, disposable options may provide a sense of security and ease.

  4. Convenience: Reusable products require regular cleaning, which might not be practical for those with a busy lifestyle or limited access to amenities.

  5. Accessibility: In some regions, sustainable alternatives might not be readily available or affordable, limiting the choice of period care.

  6. Cost Outset: While reusable products save money in the long run, the initial investment may be prohibitive for some.

  7. Health Issues: Certain medical conditions might make using reusable products unsuitable.

  8. Preference: Ultimately, personal preference plays a significant role in choosing period care options.


Embracing Your Choice with joni


Whether you choose reusable or disposable period care, it's crucial to remember that bodily agency and the right to make decisions that work for your body are reasons enough. joni recognizes the need for a disposable option that aligns with sustainability goals while accommodating individual circumstances. We're here to support and provide an eco-friendly alternative for disposable period pads and tampons that cater to diverse needs.


  1. 100% Compostable Shipping and Packaging: From shipping materials to product wrappers and protective barriers, joni products are compostable and biodegradable by 94% in 12 months.

  2. Petroleum Plastic-Free: Unlike conventional disposable pads that contain petroleum-based plastics, joni pads' protective layer is made with plant-based plastic derived from cornstarch.

  3. Certified Bamboo and Cotton: By using certified organic bamboo and cotton, we guarantee that our pads and tampons are made from renewable and responsibly sourced materials.

  4. Water-Efficient Bamboo Construction: Not only are joni pads free from petroleum plastic, but the bamboo construction also requires 200% less water to produce compared to traditional cotton pads, further reducing their environmental impact.

  5. Free from Harmful Chemicals: joni pads are certified to be free from harmful chemicals, including fragrances, dyes, titanium dioxide, and chlorine, ensuring a safer and more natural experience.

  6. Vegan-Friendly and Cruelty-Free: We take pride in being a vegan-friendly brand that never tests on animals, ensuring that our products are not only good for the planet but also ethical.


# ProgressNotPerfection


Progress not perfection is one of the values we live by at joni. As we strive for perfection, we acknowledge that we can't wait and yet we're continually evolving in our mission toward greater period equity. Disposable period care products are here to stay because they serve a very real purpose: period equity. We have made the best eco-friendly products that we can that work as well as regular plastic products. We also never stop updating and upgrading our products and our production processes as we work toward being B-Corp Certified (we're almost there!). So whatever your reason for choosing disposable period care, joni is your better choice (it's even compostable!). Learn more about our ingredients in our FAQs.


By offering disposable, breathable, organic, and eco-friendly pads and tampons, joni ensures you have a choice that aligns with your needs and values. Remember, no matter which period care option you choose, making informed and sustainable decisions is a small but powerful step towards a healthier planet. Together, let's continue celebrating progress and pushing for more sustainable solutions in every aspect of our lives.

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