Some parents are concerned about the environmental impact of nappies. Research on this has produced varied results, some studies finding that disposables are environmentally unfriendly and others finding that they're not. Most of these studies have been done either by disposable nappy manufacturers or by interest groups promoting washable nappies — you can no doubt predict which groups reached what conclusion.
• Disposable nappies produce more waste.
• Disposables are made from pulped wood and use up a lot of trees.
• Disposables are mostly disposed of in landfill sites, which are rapidly filling up. In areas where there is no landfill site, the waste has to be transported. (Though in some areas, it's incinerated and that produces recoverable energy.)
• Washable nappies use electricity, which is produced by burning fossil fuels, which generates pollution.
• Washable nappies use detergent, which may pollute the water system.
• Washable nappies use up water.
• Growing cotton — from which most washable nappies are made — has an impact on the environment.
• Nappy services wash a lot of nappies together so use less electricity, water and detergent than individuals washing nappies at home.
What you will need
Disposables
• nappies (6—8 a day on average: more in the early days, fewer in later months)
• nappy disposal bags
• wrap and seal bin — if you want to use one
Washable nappies
• around 20-24 nappies
• pins or fasteners for terries
• nappy liners
• plastic pants
• one or two plastic buckets with lids
• nappy sterilising powder or other sterilising substance.
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