In some rural areas, menstrual waste such as sanitary pads is directly discarded into small bodies of water to avoid superstitious practices, which eventually flows into the sea. A pilot study conducted in West Bengal found that 78% of 1,000 women disposed of their sanitary waste by burying it or throwing it near ponds. These practices contribute to marine pollution. Discarding sanitary pads or other hygiene products into ponds or rivers is seen as an act of removing "impure substances" and purifying the environment. This belief originates from ancient menstrual rituals, where menstruation was once considered a negative condition, and purification through water was regarded as an important ceremonial practice.

Always Blooming offers an innovative solution that transforms menstrual pad waste into new life. The biodegradable pads are designed with a seed layer and allow flowers or plants to grow when buried in the ground, while also aiming to improve the cultural stigma surrounding menstruation in the Bengal region. Always Blooming transforms menstrual pad waste into new life with biodegradable pads that contain a seed layer, allowing plants to grow when buried, while also addressing cultural stigma around menstruation in Bengal.

Sanitary Pad Layer Structure
Key Materials: Plant cellulose, biodegradable polymers.
Top Layer: Skin-friendly, absorbent natural fibers (e.g., bamboo, cotton).
Absorbent Layer: Biodegradable, blood-absorbing materials.
Seed Layer: Coated seeds to promote microorganism activation and germination.
Base Layer: Natural materials (e.g., starch films) to support microorganism contact when buried.

Always Blooming Instructions
1. After use, simply bury the pad in soil, continuing the traditional practice.
2. The pad naturally decomposes, and the seeds germinate, nourished by the nutrients in menstrual blood.
3. Menstrual blood acts as fertilizer, helping flowers grow in the soil.
4. This simple act turns waste into vibrant flowers and plants.