Real Nappies vs. Disposables
Disposable Nappy Facts
- Over 8 million disposable nappies are thrown away every day in the UK*
- The plastic used in the nappies is likely to take several hundred years to decompose*
- Apart from the waste issues, the long term side effects of the chemicals used are unknown
Some Nappy Solutions
- Many parents are choosing to use 'real' or cloth nappies as an alternative
- Unlike traditional terry squares, nappies today are designed to be convenient and are much easier to use
- You can save around £500 using cloth nappies compared with diposables- thats about half the cost!*
- Many local authorities have incentive schemes offering vouchers towards purchasing real nappies. Ask your local council if they can help you.
- Although a little more expensive, there are also a number of highly biodegradable eco-friendly disposable nappies available, without the chemicals used in conventional disposables.
*source: Womens Environmental Network www.wen.org.uk
What is the difference between using cotton/ reusable nappies and eco-disposable nappies?
A comprehensive Life Cycle Analysis study by the UK Environment Agency published in 2005 shows that there is no significant difference in the environmental impact between disposable and cotton nappies. The Environment Agency is the leading government body protecting and improving the environment in England and Wales. To view the full study visit www.environment-agency.gov.uk (Life Cycle Assessment of Disposable and Reusable Nappies in the UK, May 2005).
Real Nappy Resources
For information, advice and contacts for real nappy demonstrations
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