The Green Review

Sustainable Pregnancy Test Initiative by the UNB Reproductive Justice Society

Author: Kate Larlee

Posted on Feb 28, 2024

Category: News

In an effort to promote sustainability and reproductive health, the Reproductive Justice Society at UNB Fredericton has announced our Sustainable Pregnancy Test Initiative. Thanks to funding from the Student Sustainability Fund, we are partnering with OVRY, a Canadian, woman-owned company committed to environmental responsibility, to provide sustainable and reliable pregnancy tests to the UNB community.

Manufactured entirely in Canada, OVRY tests follow strict regulatory standards while minimizing their environmental impact. OVRY’s “strip format” tests offer the same accuracy as leading brands while using 90% less single-use plastic. This reduction in plastic waste aligns with the goals of our society as well as those of the Student Union and UNB Sustainability.

What sets OVRY apart is not only their eco-friendly approach to manufacturing but also their conscientious distribution practices. By operating fulfillment centres located in Ontario and British Columbia, OVRY minimizes emissions from shipping routes, ensuring quick delivery while reducing carbon output. Their third-party fulfillment partner is also transitioning to a fleet of electric vehicles, aiming to achieve carbon negativity by 2024.

Our society’s Sustainable Pregnancy Test Initiative aims to shift the paradigm in the reproductive health space. Unlike many companies that engage in predatory marketing or unnecessary product features, such as plastic screens and batteries, OVRY provides consumers with what they need, without excess packaging or gimmicks. Each OVRY box is stamped with an expiry date to ensure quality and freshness, and our society regulates stock to ensure no expired products are being given to the UNB community.

By choosing OVRY pregnancy tests as part of our Sustainable Pregnancy Test Initiative, members of the UNB community not only gain access to reliable reproductive health tools, but also contribute to sustainability. Through this initiative, we aim to raise awareness about the importance of sustainable consumer choices in all aspects of life, including reproductive health. As we move forward with our Sustainable Pregnancy Test Initiative, our society invites all UNB members to join us in championing sustainability and reproductive rights. Together, we can make a positive impact on both our health and the health of our planet.

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