Travel Tips for a Green Period: Why ‘Flushing’ Is Off-Limits in Many Hotel Destinations
Remote destinations often offer the ultimate escape—pristine beaches, lush forests, and breathtaking mountains. Yet, hidden beneath the natural beauty of these places lies a pressing challenge: waste management.
Most of us know better than to flush sanitary products at home, but in some countries, doing so can wreak havoc on fragile systems and delicate ecosystems. If you don’t flush at home, why change your habits on holiday?
Let’s explore why this issue is so critical, highlight innovative ways luxury eco-hotels are tackling waste, and share how you can travel more sustainably—even during your period.
Why Flushing Sanitary Products Is a No-Go
Delicate infrastructure
Unlike urban areas with robust plumbing, remote accommodations often rely on fragile systems like septic tanks or composting toilets. These systems are designed to handle human waste and biodegradable materials, not synthetic items like sanitary pads or tampons. Flushing non-biodegradable waste can cause blockages, system failures, and contamination of local water sources.
Environmental harm
Most sanitary products contain plastic and synthetic fibres that take hundreds of years to decompose. Flushing them contributes to plastic pollution, harming marine life and fragile ecosystems. In remote locations, where waste disposal is more complex, this impact can be even more severe.
A habit worth keeping everywhere
If you’re someone who already avoids flushing sanitary products at home, why change your habits on holiday? The reasoning is the same: plumbing systems—even in cities—aren’t designed to handle sanitary waste, and flushing can cause damage and environmental harm. Keeping good habits, no matter where you are, ensures consistency in reducing your footprint.
How Luxury Hotels Are Tackling the Waste Challenge
Forward-thinking eco-hotels are leading the charge in sustainable waste management, showcasing innovative solutions to minimise their environmental footprint. Here are three inspiring examples:
Soneva (Maldives and Thailand)
Soneva’s luxury resorts have adopted a zero-waste philosophy, focusing on recycling and upcycling nearly all their waste. At Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani in the Maldives, they’ve implemented strict waste segregation policies and an advanced eco-centro facility to compost organic waste. Non-biodegradable materials are repurposed into new products.
For sanitary waste, Soneva provides clear instructions to guests and ensures proper disposal bins are available in every room. These steps not only prevent environmental harm but also align with their ethos of sustainable luxury.
The Datai Langkawi (Malaysia)
Nestled in the heart of a 10-million-year-old rainforest, The Datai Langkawi champions eco-conscious operations through its sustainability initiatives. Its waste management programme includes composting organic matter and recycling non-biodegradable materials. The resort also educates guests about responsible waste disposal practices, including sanitary waste.
By investing in these systems, The Datai ensures its operations harmonise with the surrounding rainforest ecosystem, protecting biodiversity and reducing its environmental footprint.
Bawah Reserve (Indonesia)
Bawah Reserve, an exclusive island retreat in Indonesia, is built on principles of conservation and sustainability. Waste management is integral to their operations, with measures in place to handle both organic and non-organic waste responsibly. The resort uses an eco-friendly incinerator for sanitary waste, reducing its impact on the environment.
Guests at Bawah Reserve are encouraged to participate in their sustainability efforts, including proper waste segregation and eco-conscious travel practices.
Travel Tips for a Green Period
Here’s how you can minimise your environmental impact while travelling, inspired by the best practices of these eco-resorts:
-
Opt for reusable menstrual products
Switching to reusable options like menstrual cups or cloth pads can eliminate waste entirely. These products are easy to pack, cost-effective, and ideal for eco-conscious travellers. -
Choose biodegradable alternatives
If reusable products aren’t your preference, consider biodegradable pads or tampons made from natural materials. They decompose faster than conventional options and are better for the environment. -
Pack a portable disposal kit
Invest in Fab Little Bag, this small, sealable pouch can help you store used sanitary products until you find a suitable bin. They’re compact, odour-proof, and plant based, making them perfect for eco-friendly travel. -
Learn the destination’s waste policies
Before your trip, check if the hotel or resort provides sanitary waste bins or has specific disposal guidelines. Eco-conscious properties like Soneva, The Datai, and Bawah Reserve offer clear instructions to help guests minimise their impact. -
Dispose of products responsibly
If your accommodation has a dedicated bin for sanitary waste, use it! In the absence of proper facilities, keep your disposal kit handy until you can find an appropriate option.
Why It Matters
Travelling sustainably isn’t just about choosing eco-friendly accommodations—it’s about thoughtful actions that preserve the environment for future generations. Resorts like Soneva, The Datai Langkawi, and Bawah Reserve are paving the way by tackling waste challenges head-on, but they need the cooperation of guests to make a lasting impact.
By following these tips, you can help protect the beauty of the places you visit, ensure waste is managed responsibly, and support businesses committed to sustainability. After all, even small changes, like rethinking how you handle your period waste, can make a big difference.
About A’ARU Collective
At Aaru Collective, we’re passionate about fostering sustainable travel and thoughtful living. By curating eco-conscious solutions and educating travellers, we empower individuals to reduce their environmental footprint without compromising on comfort. Discover more at aarucollective.com. Proud members of 1% for the Planet.
Author: Kelly Forbes, Founder, A’ARU Collective