Introduction

I have chosen to write about the environmental impact of nappies; more specifically comparing the impact of reusable nappies compared to disposable nappies. I am an Open University Environment student and a mother of three children.

Source: WEN

A quick browse of parenting websites shows that there are two opposing camps within the nappy debate, each throwing accusations of propaganda and fabrication. I feel unbiased, honest evidence is needed and the aim of this site to be a concise amalgamation of research that has already been carried out. It is my intention that this website will be of use to NGOs (non government organisations) such as the Womens Environmental Network(12) and the Nappy information Service(1) and to aid the local authorities that are supplying grants and incentives for parents to switch to reusable nappies. Most importantly though I want to produce this website so that parents can make an informed and honest choice for their babies, households and the environment.

Impact

As a mother, I became well aware of the debate between which type of nappy is best; disposable or cloth. There has been much research done on this subject with both sides claiming superiority for environmental and health reasons. This report is focusing on the environmental impact of the different types of nappy, using evidence already gathered, with the aim of bringing together the most important points in as unbiased a way as possible. There is however one thing that all sides of the debate agree on. Using any kind of nappy is going to have some impact on the environment. It is the responsibility of the government and the parent to find a way to minimise impact on their local neighbourhood and global neighbourhood, with minimal impact on their own enjoyment of life.

For research purposes nappies have been divided into three recognised categories: