Millions of people worldwide rely on disposable sanitary pads, but the high concentration of fossil-based polymers in their composition has negative effects on the environment. This includes the impact of extracting raw materials and the disposal of used products. While sustainable alternatives to traditional pads exist, they are not widely adopted due to their low level of commoditization. This makes them less attractive to companies who prioritize elevated levels of consumption. One promising alternative is the use of biopolymer-based disposable absorbents, particularly polylactic acid (PLA), that can be derived from corn starch and is biodegradable. This study used the life cycle assessment and found that using sanitary pads made with polyethylene for 1 year generates impacts about seventeen times higher compared to using absorbents made with PLA. However, PLA production contributes to higher land use and agricultural emissions. Despite these challenges, PLA remains a promising alternative due to its renewable sourcing and lower environmental footprint in key impact categories. The findings align with UN Sustainable Development Goals 3 (Good Health and Well-being), 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and 13 (Climate Action), promoting sustainable hygiene products while mitigating environmental impacts.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n
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