Challenges and opportunities for implementing resource recovery from sanitary waste streams: insights from India

Abstract

Menstrual pads are essential for women's health yet present a notable concern for the environment since they are not biodegradable. A growing awareness of menstruation health is indicated by the increasing demand in India for high-quality, environmentally friendly sanitary pads. Menstrual waste generates 5.3 kg of CO₂ emissions per user annually, equivalent to the emissions of 49,020 automobiles per year. This review examines the recycling potential of used sanitary napkins using pyrolysis and cellulose extraction, assessing the environmental sustainability of various processes. Environmental consequences of sanitary napkin disposal are thoroughly evaluated by analyzing the current literature on pyrolysis methods, as well as the prospective uses of resultant pyrolysis oil (py-oil) and pyrolysis char (pyrochar). Additionally, cellulose extraction techniques from sanitary napkins are examined, along with the fabrication of cellulose-derived nanocellulose aerogels, emphasizing their applicability in wastewater treatment via adsorption and their role in the production of cellulose acetate filters. The article consolidates the current research to evaluate the viability and effectiveness of various recycling methods and suggests novel solutions for water purification and noise mitigation, thereby promoting sustainable waste management practices, circular economy initiatives, and eco-friendly insulation technologies.