The Agency put out a report last week that stated that using re-usable nappies was just as bad for the environment as using disposable nappies because of the energy used in washing (see letsrecycle.com story).
” Every day in West Sussex we landfill an incredible 82,000 disposable nappies. That would be nearer 90,000 if it were not for our schemes. “
– Cllr Frank Wilkinson, West Sussex CC
The report was described as “seriously flawed” by some critics, but nevertheless led to national newspapers stating “why disposable nappies are ok for environment” (Metro, 19/05/05).
Nevertheless, West Sussex county councillors have pledged to continue with a cashback incentive scheme to keep thousands of nappies from being dumped in landfills.
Frank Wilkinson, the council's cabinet member for strategic planning, said the Environment Agency study was based on “old-style” re-usable nappies, and that modern washable nappies have less of an environmental impact.
Advantage
Cllr Wilkinson also stressed that there was a “clear environmental advantage” in not having to send nappies to landfill sites for disposal.
He said: “The Environment Agency report was interesting but was based on the old style toweling nappies that need soaking and a very hot wash. They bear no resemblance to the modern, light, cotton ones that the county council promotes and which can be washed at a much lower temperature. And require no pre-soaking.
“The fact also remains that every day in West Sussex we landfill an incredible 82,000 disposable nappies. That would be nearer 90,000 if it were not for our schemes,” Cllr Wilkinson added.
Incentive
The county council's nappy incentive scheme offers parents who sign up for the Real Nappy Initiative up to 30 cash back, as well as a free starter pack of modern cotton nappies – which has a retail value of more than 100 – or four weeks' use of a laundering service.
West Sussex is also planning to continue supporting Real Nappy Week, which this year starts on Monday, June 20.
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Cllr Wilkinson said: “We only have enough landfill space in West Sussex for approximately five more years. We do not ever want to find ourselves in the position of being 'f;ined' for exceeding the new landfill quotas that are being introduced. That is why the county council is right to put recycling and waste prevention at the top of the agenda.
“We will continuing our innovative schemes to cut waste, such as promoting real nappies, food waste bins, and composters. They are all of enormous benefit not only to the environment but also the council tax payer,” he explained.
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