Surrey Washable Nappy Project
Surrey County Council and the borough and district councils are required to find ways to reduce the growing volume of household waste produced in Surrey. Disposable nappy waste accounts for 3.5% of Surrey´s household waste. It is possible for this section of waste to be reduced by encouraging parents to consider using alternatives to disposable nappies such as washable cotton nappies.
Work Undertaken
The University of Surrey undertook the above research at East Surrey Hospital in 2003, which was funded by the SITA Surrey Partnership, Surrey County Council, Mole Valley District Council, Tandridge District Council and Reigate and Banstead Borough Council. The project aims were:
- To reduce the use of disposable nappies
- To identify the barriers to using washable nappies
- To assess the impact the change of ward policy has on ongoing parent behaviour;
- To measure parents´ attitudes towards using washable nappies
The research assessed the potential for reducing waste in landfill directly caused by nappies. The full report can be viewed by clicking on the above link.
Surrey Real Nappy Network
The Surrey Real Nappy Network is a network of people who supply information, share experience, answer questions, promote services and encourage the change from disposable nappies to washable. The network will encourage new or experienced parents to share information and their own experience of using washable nappies to those still considering their choice.
By using those who have first hand knowledge of washable nappies to speak to others, they are likely to be able to answer all questions that may arise. Those considering washable nappies will be assured that they have received information from a reliable source.