Get Real Nappies

Wednesday, April, 15

New parents are being urged to cut down on the amount of waste sent to landfill by switching to real nappies.

Real Nappy Week begins on April 27 and aims to draw attention to the importance of real nappies and the benefits they can bring.

Estimates suggest that more than 14 million nappies are thrown away every year by parents in Hammersmith & Fulham alone. The nappies end up in landfill sites which are hugely expensive to use. No-one knows how long disposable nappies take to decompose but it could be hundreds of years.

Cllr Greg Smith, cabinet member for crime and street scene, said: “Very few people realise just how expensive it is for the council to send our waste to landfill. In fact, landfill rates have almost doubled in the last two years. One of the easiest ways to cut down on the amount of waste sent to landfill it for new parents to use real nappies. Not only will they be saving money and helping the environment, but they will also help H&F to cut council tax every year.”

Real nappies are a great alternative to disposals. They're not only much better for the environment, they're also cheaper for parents, and are a lot easier to use than the terry cloths of the last century. Research shows that using home-laundered real nappies rather than disposables could save parents approximately £500 for each child.

To promote real nappies, the council is holding special sessions where parents can find out more. Sessions take place at St Mary’s Church Hall, Edith Road, W14, from 2.15pm to 4.15pm on the last Friday of every month. However, in May the session will take place on the thirs Friday of the month. At the sessions, expects will discuss all of the best real nappies on the market and answer questions.

To book a place or to find out more about real nappies call 020 8753 3352 or email donna.mcaleer@lbhf.gov.uk