Environmenstrual Week with Mooncup
If you hadn't heard, this week is Environmenstrual Week. We've teamed up with our VIP discount partner, Mooncup, to discuss how you can support the cause and make a sustainable swap to eco-friendly menstrual products. But first, a bit of background info...
In the UK alone, 200,000 tonnes of waste is generated every year from menstrual products. This means the average user produces around 125-150kg of menstrual product waste in a lifetime. Beyond the visible plastics in wrappers, backing strips and applicators, conventional period products contain up to 90% plastic within their composition. Not to mention the pesticides used to produce the cotton they contain. It is estimated that one disposable pad can take around 500 years to decompose!
We spoke to Mooncup about Environmenstrual Week to get the lowdown on why true student guests should get involved...
What is Environmenstrual Week and why is it important?
The term was coined in 2018 as Women’s Environmental Network (WEN) launched an annual week of action to amplify the work focused on creating a world where eco-friendly, plastic-free and toxin-free menstrual products are accessible to everyone with a period.
Since 2018, Environmenstrual Week has offered a space to shine a global spotlight on periods and the need for products that are better for people and planet. A space to raise awareness, amplify conversations and drive positive change.
Tell us about Mooncup and their involvement in Environmenstrual Week.
To be honest, every week could be considered Environmenstrual Week at Mooncup! Created in Brighton in 2002, Mooncup was born of a desire to drastically reduce the waste produced by throwaway period products, whilst providing a convenient and safe alternative to tampons and pads.
The Mooncup menstrual cup is made from platinum cured, medical grade silicone that is natural and unpigmented. The Mooncup is reusable, zero waste and contains no dyes, perfumes, BPA, phthalates, plastic, bleaches, or toxins. All the Mooncup packaging is plastic free and recyclable too.
We are always delighted to take part in and spread the word around Environmenstrual Week. It’s an opportunity to unite our work and voices to raise awareness and drive action towards creating a better menstrual experience for people and planet.
How can I do my bit to make a positive difference?
Being the pioneers of plastic-free periods at Mooncup, we know that the wave of change starts with small ripples.
Each one of us will use around 11,000 disposable period products in our menstruating lifetime. Thanks to Mooncup® users worldwide, nearly 2.9 billion tampons and pads have been saved from ending up on our beaches or in landfill since we started in 2002.
Small steps can go a long way to massively reduce the amount of waste we create. Environmenstrual week can be the perfect opportunity to make the switch to sustainable period products, like the Mooncup menstrual cup, that will continue to have a positive impact for many years to come. You only need one reusable Mooncup, whatever your flow. It will last for years and years, saving you money too.
Make an active choice and own your period! Explore reusable period products, such as the Mooncup, reusable pads or period pants. Choosing the right reusable period product for you is a personal thing. Different products may feel right on different days and nights during your period, as well as at different times in your life, so it’s just about finding the right one for you.
What is the benefit of the Mooncup® over most menstrual products?
By switching to a reusable Mooncup you’ll be making a huge positive impact on the environment as well as supporting a small ethical business. You only need one Mooncup and then you’re covered for both light and heavy days.
The Mooncup is super comfy too! It’s made from such soft, medical-grade silicone that some say you can even forget you're on your period. It holds three times more blood than a regular tampon, and because Mooncup is non-absorbent, it won’t dry you out or leave fibres where you don't want them, like a tampon does.
The Mooncup is also a real money-saver. No more stockpiling different absorbency pads or tampons! The Mooncup pays for itself after 6-8 months.
In short, the Mooncup is better for you AND the planet! Every Mooncup bought through our UK website also helps to fund the Plastic-Free Periods campaign, run by environmental non-profit City to Sea. With the support of our customers, the campaign to stop period plastic pollution can reach more people than ever – particularly those who have been historically excluded from the conversation.
How can I encourage my friends to get involved in the campaign?
Other than making a sustainable swap (or if you’ve already made one!), you can also join in on the events and action taking place during Environmenstrual week. Spread the word to your friends and family, and support those doing the work to create positive change - this Environmenstrual Week and beyond. Check out the WEN website for more ideas for how to get involved.
Where can I purchase Mooncup and can I get a discount?
We've teamed up with Mooncup to offer true student guests 20% off their menstrual cup.
Get your discount code through the VIP Discount Page! The offer is valid until 23:59 on 31st December 2021.