October 18th, 2008

Washable Nappies are Better for the Environment

Washable Nappies Are Best for the Environment

Real nappies are up to 40% better for the environment than disposables; a new report from the government has stated today.

The key finding of the report shows that the environmental benefits are achieved by following simple washing guidelines like:

·         avoiding tumbledrying nappies,
·         using A-rated appliances and
·         washing in full loads at no more than 60 degrees

These are all measures recommended by nappy manufacturers and commonly used by parents . 

The report highlights that unlike disposables, washable nappies put parents in control of the impact they have on the environment.

Parents using real nappies will also be financially better off.  It has long been known that real nappies save parents hundreds of pounds and now this
advice on washing methods, which are supported and promoted by the Real Nappy Campaign, will help reduce fuel bills too.  The savings in costs and for the
environment are even better when real nappies are used on a second child as manyfamilies do.

Laura Smith, mum to 8 month old Conner said:
“We already wash all the family laundry at lower temperatures and don’t use a tumble drier.  With increasing
energy bills I think more people are opting for energy efficient washing options and we’re delighted that this report backs up our decision to use washable nappies.”

An additional concern caused by disposable nappy use, is the pressure on UK landfill sites from the disposal of 690,000 tonnes of nappy waste each year; most of which
are landfilled.  This issue is not covered by the newly published report yet is still a major concern for consumers and only confirms the environmental benefits of
using washable nappies.

Jon Rolls of the Real Nappy Campaign stated:
“The findings of this report will confirm what many real nappy users already felt to be true; they will also alleviate the confusion caused by the earlier Environment Agency report.
The clear message to parents is that by using washable nappies sensibly they are opting for the most environmentally friendly nappy option, and saving themselves money.  Washable nappies in all shapes, sizes and designs are readily available through independent, online and high street retailers”

Jon Rolls added:
The Real Nappy Campaign clearly has an important ongoing role in continuing the promotion of washable nappies, as well as providing information on how to ensure their
environmental impact is minimised. We recognise that real nappy users occasionally find it convenient to use disposable nappies too and we are pleased to see that disposable manufacturers recognise the need to improve the environmental impact of their products.  Given the outcome of this report we look forward to constructive dialogue with the disposable industry about how we can help to further reduce the impact of disposables.

Posted in Real Nappies
By Laura