There is a tendency to assume washable cloth nappies will be better for the environment than disposables because the latter end up in landfill sites and do not biodegrade in a short time scale. The true environmental impact of a product, however, should take account of its whole lifespan. Cloth and disposable nappies should be compared through the manufacturing process and washing and drying must be a factor for cloth nappies.
How Green are Pampers Disposable Nappies?
In the FAQ section of the Pampers website (owned by Proctor & Gamble), they claim that recent research has shown that the negative environmental impact of washable re-useable nappies is about the same as disposables when the issues of manufacture and washing with water and detergent are considered along with the end of life issue.
Furthermore, Pampers point out that their nappies are considerably less bulky than they used to be, technology and design has improved over the decades which results in less material in landfills.
Are Disposables or Cloth Diapers or Nappies Better for the Environment?
Independent research in the UK in 2006 found that on average a disposable nappy could be slightly better than a washable nappy, this is due to improvements in the manufacturing of disposables.
In "An updated Life Cyle Assessment Study for Disposable & Reusable Nappies" by S Aumônier et al (Science Report - SC010018/SR2, UK Environment Agency, October 2008) it was also explained that the environmental impact of washable diapers depends on how they are used by the owner. Cloth nappies could have a considerably lower impact than disposables if the following takes place:
- washing the nappies on fuller loads
- lining and air drying the nappies, never resorting to a tumble drier
- re-using the nappies on other children.
In its conclusion the Environment Agency also recommended that those using washable nappies should use modern A rated laundry appliances and wash nappies at 60° C not boiled at 90° C.
What is the Carbon Footprint of Diapers?
In 2006, using disposable diapers in the UK for 2 and half years, as a typical baby and toddler, according to the study cited above there would be 550kg of CO2, approximately. The average cloth diaper user in the UK would result in an extra 20kg of CO2, but this could be greatly reduced or increased due to laundry methods and whether the nappies are to be used by more children.
Are Green Biodegradable Nappies Best for the Environment?
There are disposable nappies which are aimed at the green consumer, claims are made that these are biodegradable.
On the Huggies website (owned by Proctor & Gamble) it is claimed that although some niche marketed biodegradable nappies are available their eco-credentials are questionable for several reasons:
- increased wood pulp content makes them heavier, bulkier and results in more trucks;
- if nappies are disposed of via waste incineration then their is no difference;
- if nappies are disposed of via modern, oxygen free, landfill then both nappies will biodegrade slowly over many years.
Furthermore, it is claimed that modern nappy materials will keep a baby drier than the eco-nappies.
Disposable Nappies or Diapers & the Environment
Washable nappies may be more environmentally friendly than disposable diapers, if used carefully. Those wanting the convenience of disposable diapers do not have to feel too guilty about their impact on the environment. Eco-friendly, green, biodegradable nappies may be no better or even worse than the modern main brands if:
- they are bulkier so require more transport,
- they are less absorbent and so may require more nappy changes,
- the manufacturing process may have a greater, unseen environment impact.
Busy parents who want to protect and preserve the planet with limited time and resources might have better results focusing on different areas of life, such as:
- the efficiency of heating, cooling or lighting their own home,
- modes of transportation used for work or leisure.
Deborah Percy - BSc. MA. Managing Director of a heating & plumbing business. Interest in maths, science & research. Mother of 3, including twins.
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