It is time for Pennsylvania schools to welcome eco-friendly menstrual products for a greener future for students and the planet.

Pennsylvania could flow toward sustainability one sustainable tampon at a time by incorporating eco-friendly menstrual products (such as menstrual cups and period-proof underwear) into their school budgets and policies. This would educate students about the importance of environmental stewardship and address the present issues of period poverty.

In July, Gov. Josh Shapiro signed off on a $3 million grant program to provide free period products to Pennsylvania schools. This was one month after Highlands School District partnered with LuLus Free Store to launch free menstruation stations within the school to combat period poverty and enhance the well-being of the students. Shapiro’s initiative to provide free period products to schools is commendable, but it could have been even more impactful if it had specified that the menstrual products were sustainable.

Moreover, reusable menstrual products are cost-effective in the long run, reducing the financial burden on schools, families and students compared to disposable products.

While providing free menstrual hygiene products to Pennsylvania students is a praiseworthy step, it is equally important to consider the environmental impact of these products.

Sydney Altfather

Fawn

The writer is studying communications at Chatham University.

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