HARPER, Liberia — In observance of World Menstrual Hygiene Day, the Progressive Health Initiative of Liberia (PHIL Inc.), a local nongovernmental organization, hosted a one-day symposium Wednesday, May 28, 2025, on the campus of Tubman University in Harper, Maryland County.
The event, held at the Dr. Elizabeth Davis-Russell College of Education, focused on raising awareness about menstrual health, reducing stigma, and promoting sustainable menstrual hygiene practices. The 2025 theme, “Together for a Period-Friendly World,” emphasized global efforts to ensure that menstruation does not hinder access to education, health care or opportunity.
PHIL Inc. Executive Director Isaac M. Bleh Jr. said the annual observance serves as a call for equity and empowerment.
“On May 28 each year, communities around the world come together to break taboos, raise awareness, and advocate for better menstrual health,” Bleh said. “This year’s theme challenges all of us to act collectively in eliminating the barriers that menstruation creates, particularly for girls and women.”
The symposium was attended by representatives from the Ministry of Gender, the Maryland County Health Team, development partners, and advocates from Partners In Health Liberia. Participants delivered presentations calling for an end to the stigma surrounding menstruation and highlighted the need for improved access to menstrual hygiene resources.
Environmental Impact of Menstrual Products
Dominic L. Miller, an environmental expert and lecturer at William V.S. Tubman University, presented on “The Environmental Factors Affecting Menstruation.” He noted that although menstruation is a natural process, the products used to manage it pose significant environmental risks.
“Every year, billions of disposable pads and tampons end up in landfills, contributing to plastic pollution and carbon emissions,” Miller said. “Most of these products are non-biodegradable and contain plastic, synthetic fibers, and chemicals.”
Citing research, he said more than 20 billion sanitary napkins, tampons and applicators are discarded globally each year, with some materials taking centuries to decompose. These products release microplastics into the environment and harm ecosystems.
Miller emphasized that the manufacturing process for disposable menstrual products consumes large amounts of water, energy and fossil fuels. He cited plastic tampon applicators and the backing strips on sanitary pads as major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change.
As alternatives, Miller advocated for reusable menstrual products such as:
- Menstrual cups: Made from medical-grade silicone and lasting up to 10 years.
- Reusable cloth pads: An eco-friendly option that reduces waste.
- Period underwear: Designed to absorb menstrual flow without additional products.
While these alternatives are more sustainable, he acknowledged that access remains a challenge in communities lacking clean water and sanitation. Social stigma also hinders the adoption of these new methods.
Policy Recommendations and Advocacy
Miller urged the government and partner organizations to push for policy changes to mitigate the environmental impact of menstrual products. Some countries, he said, have removed the tampon tax to make sustainable options more affordable and are investing in educational campaigns.
“This initiative provided a safe space for education, engagement and empowerment, with a focus on menstrual hygiene management, stigma reduction and gender health equity,” he added.
PHIL Inc. extended appreciation to all attendees, facilitators and partners for their participation and commitment to advancing menstrual health and dignity.
“We remain committed to working closely with key institutions — especially Partners In Health, the Maryland County Health Team, NPHIL and the Ministry of Health — to advance health equity across Liberia,” Bleh said.
Only two high schools honored the invitation out of the many institutions invited to the symposium. However, PHIL Inc. acknowledged the strong participation and contributions of the Dorbor Bedell Foundation, Partners In Health, the Maryland County Health Team, Jireh Solid Foundation and Our Lady of Fatima School.
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