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The alternatives are accessible and just as convenient. Choose organic all-cotton tampons, which are free of synthetics and use a harmless process for bleaching. Still, while these tampons reduce the negative environmental impact from production, they do nothing to affect the waste problem.
Herewith, some more options:
Reusable PadsPut your squeamishness aside for just a moment and consider the concept of a reusable pad. GladRags and LunaPads are two companies that tout the eco- and financial benefits of using cloth reusable pads. Admittedly they must be soaked and washed before reusing, upping the water usage of the environmental equation. But they’re still a better choice than disposables. Roughly $30 will buy you three days’ worth of reusables, and they come in patterns such as zebra stripes and leopard. One woman calls them her “menstrual lingerie”.
Sea Sponges
I know…it’s getting weirder. Sea sponges are inserted much like a tampon and absorb your flow, though they can leak when they get full. When removed, they must be soaked in a solution and left to dry before reuse. As well, they cost roughly $3 each and must be replaced every four months or so, making them not the most financially sound eco-option.
The Keeper
And weirder still… I know a number of women who swear by the little natural rubber cup that simply requires periodic emptying (less frequent than changing tampons, I’m told), and is so efficient you won’t even need the occasional pantyliner in case of leaks.
Check it out
—Organic all-natural tampons can be bought at most supermarkets (they’re sometimes tucked away in the “natural food” section) and pharmacies. Look for such brands as Natracare and Organic Essentials.
—Both www.gladrags.com and www.lunapads.com sells reusable pads, sea sponges and The Keeper.
— Visit www.jadeandpearl.com for info on the sea sponges
LESLIE GARRETT is working on a book focusing on eco-friendly and fair trade consumer choices. It will be released in spring 2007. Visit her at www.thevirtuousconsumer.com.
