NEEPS

nichep · Mini-Neepster Joined: 05 Feb 2008 Posts: 47

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 tumble drying 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 many families 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.
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wildgarlic · Posted: Mon Oct 20, 2008 12:10 pm Post subject:

It's good to see this report after the last one a few years back that wasn't accurate.
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mastercomposter · Posted: Mon Oct 20, 2008 12:26 pm Post subject: Real Nappies

Ditto on report - very positive.

Just to say Aberdeen Forward run the Real Nappy Project across Aberdeenshire as well. Our lovely "nappy lady" Sharan can be contacted on 07921971417 or on Aberdeen Forwards number 01224 213736.

Master Composter (Chris)

wildgarlic · Posted: Mon Oct 20, 2008 12:34 pm Post subject:

Thanks Chris - perhaps you could ask her to pop in here from time to time

Is there still the financial incentive for people to switch to real nappies? I know that when I last asked about it (3 years ago now I guess) that it had been withdrawn.
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mastercomposter · Posted: Mon Oct 20, 2008 12:38 pm Post subject: Nappies

No - no incentives any more.

Master Composter (Chris)

nichep · Mini-Neepster Joined: 05 Feb 2008 Posts: 47

No there is no financial incentive in Aberdeen or the shire, although many other authorities still have incentive schemes
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baldowrie · Neepster Joined: 21 Jul 2007 Posts: 1159

I am not disputing the gist of what is being said, however

nichep · Mini-Neepster Joined: 05 Feb 2008 Posts: 47

http://randd.defra.gov.uk/Document.aspx?Document=WR0705_7589_FRP.pdf
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wildgarlic · Posted: Mon Oct 20, 2008 3:10 pm Post subject:

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/earth/...=/earth/2008/10/17/eanappy117.xml

Can find reference to the article on several sites but can't see anything about it on the Environment Agency site.
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wildgarlic · Posted: Mon Oct 20, 2008 3:11 pm Post subject:

Ahhh you posted before I got there Nicole - thanks

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