5 Women Who Changed Science, Sustainability & Period Care
March is Women’s History Month, a time to honor the women who broke barriers, challenged norms, and paved the way for progress. From science to sustainability, these trailblazers made lasting contributions that continue to shape our lives today—including how we care for ourselves and the planet.
At Femdacity, we believe in following their lead—making sustainable choices, advocating for change, and empowering women through better period care. Let’s take a moment to celebrate five incredible women whose work inspires us every day.
1. Rachel Carson (1907–1964) – The Voice That Launched the Environmental Movement
Before “going green” was mainstream, Rachel Carson sounded the alarm on the dangers of pesticides with her groundbreaking book, Silent Spring (1962). Her work led to the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and inspired a global movement toward environmental conservation.
Her Impact on Sustainability: Carson’s work reminds us that every choice we make—big or small—affects the environment. Choosing reusable period products over disposables is one way we can reduce waste and protect our planet.
2. Dr. Wangari Maathai (1940–2011) – The Woman Who Planted 50 Million Trees
As the first African woman to win a Nobel Peace Prize, Dr. Wangari Maathai was a force for environmental justice. She founded the Green Belt Movement, empowering Kenyan women to plant trees, restore ecosystems, and fight climate change.
Her Impact on Sustainability: Maathai believed that small, consistent actions create big change—just like switching to reusable period products can make a long-term impact on reducing plastic waste.
3. Katherine Johnson (1918–2020) – The Mathematician Who Sent Astronauts to Space
A brilliant NASA mathematician, Katherine Johnson calculated flight paths for the first U.S. space missions, including Apollo 11’s moon landing. Her work helped break both racial and gender barriers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math).
Her Impact on Sustainability: Johnson’s legacy proves that women belong in spaces once dominated by men—including innovation in menstrual health. Today, modern reusable period products are a result of science, engineering, and women-led advancements in health and sustainability.
4. Dr. Jane Goodall (b. 1934) – The Champion of Wildlife & Conservation
Renowned for her work with chimpanzees, Dr. Jane Goodall redefined how we understand and protect wildlife. She has spent her life advocating for conservation, proving that small, ethical choices add up to global change.
Her Impact on Sustainability: Goodall encourages people to make conscious choices, whether that’s in food, fashion, or personal care. Opting for reusable period products instead of disposables is one simple way to live more sustainably.
5. Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson (b. 1980) – The Ocean Defender
As a marine biologist, climate policy expert, and activist, Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson is a modern-day champion for ocean conservation. She co-founded the Urban Ocean Lab and advocates for policies that protect marine ecosystems.
Her Impact on Sustainability: Johnson’s work highlights the urgency of protecting our environment—especially against plastic pollution in our oceans. Since disposable pads and tampons contribute to this pollution, switching to reusable period products is a simple but powerful way to make a difference.
Honoring Women, Making a Difference
These women remind us that innovation, activism, and sustainability go hand in hand. Whether through science, conservation, or leadership, their work continues to inspire positive change.
At Femdacity, we believe in taking small, meaningful steps toward a more sustainable future—starting with eco-friendly period care. By choosing reusable products, you’re joining a movement that supports both women and the planet.
Who inspires you most? Drop a comment below or share this post with someone who should know these amazing women!