What is the environmental impact of nappies?

There has been considerable debate and conflicting advice about the issue of cloth nappies versus disposable nappies. There are many reasons why parents choose one sort of nappy over another, but confusion remains about whether disposable or cloth nappies are better for the environment.

For many people, the general assumption has always been that cloth nappies are far better for the environment than disposables. Indeed, from a waste to landfill perspective, cloth nappies are definitely better.

But from a wider environmental perspective, the issue is not always so clear cut. To ensure minimum environmental impact, cloth nappy users need to wash organic cotton nappies in cold water using 100% biodegradable phosphate-free detergent and an oxygen-based bleach. The washing machine should be a water-efficient front-loader powered by green electricity and the drying should take place on a washing line. Unfortunately, very few people do this.

Indeed, 95% of Australians currently use disposable nappies. As a result, the most important issue in the short term is to find ways to reduce the environmental impact of disposable nappies. This is where the biggest environmental gains can be made.

In 2005, an independent UK Environment Agency study evaluated the environmental impacts of using disposable nappies, washing cloth nappies at home and using a laundry service.

The study recommended that manufacturers of disposable nappies should improve the environmental performance of their products, with a focus on weight reduction, improvements in materials manufacturing and a reduction in the amount of disposable nappies going to landfill.

Why does Planet Ark endorse EcoBots nappies?

Planet Ark believes that more sustainable and biodegradable materials should be used in the manufacture of disposable nappies. Baby Love EcoBots are achieving this by manufacturing more than 2/3’s of their nappy components using biodegradable materials, including bioplastics made from renewable plant-based resources.

The development of BabyLove EcoBots represents a significant breakthrough in the quest to reduce the negative impact of disposable nappies on the environment.

Planet Ark is committed to working with BabyLove to increase the level of disposable nappy biodegradability even further. Given the rise in commercial composting facilities around Australia, the biodegradability of nappies will become increasingly important issue to consumers and local councils.

Planet Ark believes that the type of nappy parents buy is a matter of personal choice. But it's very important that people are able to buy nappy products that have a reduced Impact on the environment. This is why we are supporting Babylove Ecobots in a push to significantly reduce the impact that disposable nappies have on the environment.

For more information on BabyLove Ecobots visit www.babyloveecobots.com.au

For more information regarding Planet Ark’s endorsement of Babylove EcoBots call Planet Ark on 1300 731 781.

Updated January 2008.