Which nappies are most environmentally friendly?

In Ethical Consumer’s recent report on nappies we awarded four brands positive marks for sustainability: Bambo Nature, Moltex, Nature Babycare and Tushies. Our disposables best buy Bambo Nature has independently accredited green credentials from the Nordic Swan eco-label.

Are there environmentally friendly nappies?

Biodegradable disposable nappies – made from a range of materials and using a non-chemical absorption method – are also available. These nappies are better for the environment than standard disposable nappies, but still take many years to break down in landfill.

Are there any 100% biodegradable nappies?

No. There is no disposable nappy currently on the market that is 100% biodegradable. As you can see from the details on some of the big brands mentioned above, most biodegradable brands only claim to be made of 60 % to 80% biodegradable material.

How do you dispose of eco-friendly nappies?

To properly dispose of your eco nappy, place the nappy IN YOUR REGULAR WASTE BIN. Do not compost them and do not place them in your green recycling bin for the following reasons: Human waste isn’t allowed there.

What kind of nappies are eco friendly to use?

These eco-friendly nappies impressed our testers, with the made from breathable bamboo fibres and chlorine-free wood pulp, making them 80% biodegradable. Free from perfume, alcohol and chlorine, you can rest assured that these nappies will be comfortable for your baby’s skin.

How many trees are needed to produce nappies in New Zealand?

It takes 1.3 million trees a year to produce disposable nappies for NZ babies alone and 1 cup of crude oil per nappy is required to produce the outer plastic. There is no doubt about it, disposable nappies are resource gobblers!

Which is the greener way to dispose of nappies?

Karen Ashby CEO of Envirocomp with the old nappy recycling machine. Ashby said the non-compostable plastic bags were part of why they decided to find a greener solution. A company that advertises environmentally friendly nappy disposal has been sending waste to landfill, but will begin turning used nappies into fuel by early 2018.

Why was polyacrylate banned in disposable nappies?

Most disposable nappies contain chemical gels to absorb moisture and this is also under scrutiny. In 1985 Polyacrylate, (a common ingredient in these gels), was banned in sanitary products because of links to Toxic Shock Syndrome. Strangely it is still allowed in nappies.