From Idea to Impact: Shivani Jain’s Eco-Conscious Menstrual Products
The modern-day consumer demands not just functionality but also a commitment to sustainability—and that’s exactly what Shivani Jain delivers with her brand, EcoWits. Focused on providing eco-friendly and biodegradable sanitary pads, Shivani has reimagined how women experience their periods. In this candid interview with Hale and Belle, she shares her journey, challenges, and aspirations to make sustainable menstruation accessible for all.
But what makes corn-starch-based pads such a revolutionary product? Traditional sanitary pads contain up to 90% plastic and harmful chemicals like dioxins and artificial fragrances, which are linked to rashes, infections, and serious health risks like hormone disruption and reproductive toxicity. Corn-starch-based pads, on the other hand, are crafted from plant-derived polymers, making them fully biodegradable. Unlike conventional pads that take up to 500 years to decompose, these biodegradable sanitary pads break down in 90 to 180 days under composting conditions, leaving no harmful residue. They are breathable, hypoallergenic, and free of toxic additives, offering a safer, healthier option for women while drastically reducing menstrual waste.
Let’s uncover Shivani’s story and understand how EcoWits is actively contributing to this necessary shift.
Journey & Inspiration
Q: What inspired you to venture into sustainable menstrual products, and why did you choose corn-starch-based pads specifically?
Shivani: I always wanted to start my business with a product that adds value to people’s lives. While sustainability is a widely discussed topic, I noticed it’s often overlooked when it comes to menstruation. Women are generally more comfortable using pads over cups or other alternatives, so I decided to offer them a safe menstrual product that fits within their comfort zone.
Q: Was there a specific experience or moment that sparked the idea for your brand?
Shivani: Yes, there was! One day, while scrolling through reels, I came across a video showcasing the harmful effects of chemical-laden pads on both women and the environment. That reel stayed with me and sparked my journey toward creating EcoWits.
About the Product
Q: How do your corn-starch-based pads differ from traditional pads in terms of sustainability and performance?
Shivani: Our pads are plastic-free and devoid of harmful chemicals like xylene, chloroform, and acetone. They are biodegradable, super comfortable, and designed with a sleek fit that avoids bulkiness. Unlike traditional pads, ours do not contain artificial fragrances, reducing the risk of rashes and irritation. They’re UV sterilized and packaged in recyclable cardboard, ensuring they are safe for both women and the environment.
Q: Can you share some key features of your pads that make them stand out for both comfort and eco-friendliness?
Shivani: Apart from being biodegradable and chemical-free, our pads are incredibly soft and breathable. They don’t leave any harmful residue in nature and are Made in India, which supports local manufacturing. Even the release sheet is designed to wrap the used pad, making disposal easy and hygienic.
Challenges and Impact
Q: What were the biggest challenges you faced in developing a biodegradable product, and how did you overcome them?
Shivani: One of the biggest challenges was addressing the misconception that biodegradable products are less effective. Many women doubted the performance of our pads because of their sleek design. However, through demonstrations and education, we’ve been able to debunk these myths and gain their trust.
Q: How do you think your pads contribute to reducing menstrual waste, and what impact do you hope they have on the environment?
Shivani: Since our pads are made from biodegradable materials, they don’t leave behind the chemical residue or microplastics that traditional pads do. This helps reduce menstrual waste significantly. I hope our products encourage more women to switch to sustainable options, ultimately lowering the environmental burden caused by menstrual waste.
Future Goals and Vision
Q: What’s your vision for the future of your brand and sustainable menstrual care?
Shivani: My vision is to introduce menstrual cups with a solid action plan for their proper use, as cups are the most sustainable menstrual care option. Our pads will continue to cater to those who prefer pads but want safer, eco-friendly options.
Q: Are you working on any innovations or new products that align with your eco-conscious mission?
Shivani: Absolutely. We are exploring sustainable intimate hygiene products that align with our core mission of sustainability.
Personal Touch
Q: What lessons have you learned from this journey that you’d like to share with other women entrepreneurs?
Shivani: Never underestimate your product or service. There may be flaws, but remember that in India, there’s a market for everything. Even if your audience starts small, the world can become your market.
Q: What message would you like to give to women considering a switch to sustainable menstrual products?
Shivani: It’s always better to switch to sustainable menstrual products as early as possible. They’re not only safer for your body but also better for the environment. Young girls entering menstruation should be given safe products from the start to prevent health issues later in life.
Why Corn-Starch-Based Pads Matter
The harmful chemicals and plastic in conventional pads contribute to rashes, irritation, and long-term health risks while creating an enormous environmental burden. Corn-starch-based pads are a revolutionary alternative, made from plant-derived polymers that are breathable, hypoallergenic, and biodegradable. These biodegradable sanitary pads naturally decompose within a few months, without leaving any toxic byproducts behind. By switching to eco-friendly options like those from EcoWits, women can prioritize their health while reducing their environmental footprint, proving that sustainability and comfort can go hand in hand.
Also Read: Dr. Jaishree Sharad: The Dermatologist Extraordinaire Transforming Skincare, One Woman at a Time
Ready to make the switch to eco-friendly period care? Head over to EcoWits today to try their biodegradable sanitary pads and take a step towards a healthier planet. By choosing sustainable menstruation products, you’re not only caring for your body but also making a positive impact on the environment. Make the change today and join the movement towards a greener future!
Disclaimer: This is not a sponsored article. The views and recommendations are based on independent research and opinion.
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