On this World Environment Day, as the global theme “Ending Plastic Pollution” echoes across continents, V. Kuttappan Pillai, Senior Vice President of HLL Lifecare Limited, draws attention to an often-overlooked yet critical source of pollution — menstrual waste.

“In a world shaped by convenience, plastic has become both a ubiquitous burden and a looming peril,” he says, highlighting the staggering environmental cost of disposable menstrual products, which often contain up to 90% plastic by weight.

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V. Kuttappan Pillai, Senior Vice President of HLL Lifecare Limited

With over 36 crore menstruating women in India alone, the widespread use of plastic-based sanitary pads contributes to an enormous environmental toll — amounting to approximately 12.3 billion pads annually. Improper disposal leads to clogged drains, water contamination, and health hazards for sanitation workers, while incineration releases toxic gases such as dioxins and furans.

Pillai notes that the cumulative carbon footprint of such products can result in as much as 360 kilograms of CO₂ emissions per user over a lifetime — a figure that rarely enters public discourse but significantly contributes to the global climate crisis.

As a sustainable, affordable, and hygienic solution, menstrual cups stand out as a viable alternative. Made from medical-grade silicone, a single cup can last up to 10 years, replacing thousands of disposable pads. “We need to shift the narrative from convenience to consciousness. Let us commit to making menstrual hygiene products as clean and green as possible — empowering women while healing the planet,” Pillai urges.

He calls for a broader shift in mindset towards menstrual sustainability, urging greater public awareness, increased access to eco-friendly alternatives, and the integration of sustainable menstrual products into everyday life.

HLL’s flagship initiative, the THINKAL project, has already distributed over eight lakh menstrual cups across India and Lakshadweep, setting a strong precedent for large-scale change.