NEW DELHI - Niine Sanitary Napkins, a major provider of premium and affordable hygiene solutions in India, has introduced the country's first PLA-based biodegradable sanitary pads.
India faces a staggering challenge with the disposal of approximately 1.021 billion soiled disposable sanitary napkins every month. These pads are heavily composed of plastic and take an alarming 500-800 years to decompose fully. Improper disposal methods, including burning, flushing down toilets, or leaving them in exposed landfills, not only pose a severe threat to the environment but also endanger the health of sanitation workers.
In response to this critical issue, Niine says it has taken a significant step by introducing one of the most environmentally friendly sanitary napkins. These napkins are crafted using a combination of eco-friendly materials such as wood pulp, bio-based resins and oils, and PLA-based materials. They adhere to the highest standards of biodegradability, certified by renowned institutions like CIPET and ISO.
The pads are CIPET-certified, with more than 90% of the pad decomposing within 175 days and the rest within a year. The entire packaging, including the outer cover and disposable bags, is also biodegradable.
The pads have been designed to offer exceptional performance in absorption, comfort, and leakage protection, comparable to regular sanitary pads. Moreover, these pads are 100% chemical-free and vegan, providing a safe and sustainable alternative.
PLA, derived from renewable resources like corn starch or sugarcane, is a biodegradable and compostable polymer, the use of which, says Niine, demonstrates its commitment to reducing reliance on non-renewable resources.
With the prestigious CIPET (Central Institute of Plastics Engineering & Technology) certification, Niine also says it is setting a new industry standard, emphasising its dedication to environmental responsibility and innovation.
Notably, Niine's pads exhibit enhanced compostability, decomposing effectively even in underground environments without requiring specific conditions like exposure to sunlight or air.
Commenting on the launch, Amar Tulsiyan, Founder, Niine Sanitary Napkins, said: "Five years ago, we were challenged with a crucial question: 'Can you develop a sustainable solution?' Today, we proudly present our resounding answer. After extensive research, development, and certifications, we launch our biodegradable sanitary napkins—a leap towards the future, embodying an evolution for a better tomorrow. Importantly, this milestone aligns with the UN's sustainable development goals, emphasising a cleaner environment for all. As pioneers, we take pride in leading the way, championing sustainability and empowering individuals with a responsible choice."
Niine has also manufactured the country's first biodegradable sanitary napkins with a PLA-based top sheet. These napkins are crafted from pure, safe, and skin-friendly materials, providing a soft and cotton-like feel. With superior masking and faster absorption, Niine ensures dryness and leakage protection. They are free from harsh chemicals and artificial fragrances, making them ideal for sensitive skin. These vegan napkins feature extra-long pads and each pad comes with a disposable bag, and they maintain their shape and structure even on heavy flow days.
