Cheshire County Council

Less Nappies, More Space

Moves to reduce the impact of more than 36 million nappies that end up in Cheshire landfill sites each year are being addressed by the countywide Real Nappy Network

Babies get through about 5,000 nappies in their first two and a half years and the resultant disposable nappies now represent four percent of all household rubbish in the UK and estimated to cost the UK taxpayer £40 million per year.

Cheshire Real Nappy Network is co-ordinated by Janet Sampson, Waste Education Officer at Cheshire County Council and members including representatives from suppliers and the borough councils of Cheshire this week celebrated Real Nappy Week with the launch of their Nappuccino events for new and expectant mums.

The first event took place at Northwich Memorial Hall, Winsford and is one of a  series planned to take place throughout the year at venues throughout Cheshire.

The Nappuccinos bring together exhibitors who can provide information not just about real nappies but a whole host of other baby related items.

A champion of the Real Nappy Network is County Councillor Eveleigh Moore Dutton, said: “Real Nappies have moved on from the old days of the cotton terry, so much so that they have become a fashion accessory as well as an economic option.

“Saying goodbye to disposables saves waste and together with a sensible washing routine, parents can significantly reduce the environmental impact.”

To support new parents Cheshire Real Nappy Network provide three incentive schemes to help them trial real nappies. 

One of these is the opportunity to receive a free trial pack of real nappies (to the value of £25).  Since real nappies now come in so many shapes and sizes, the scheme also provides one-to-one advice on how to choose the correct size and options available on laundry care.

                                               
Source: Cheshire County Council website.

Full details of the schemes and future Nappuccino events are available from Janet Sampson, Waste Education Officer at Cheshire County Council on 01244 603574 or by logging onto www.cheshire.gov.uk/waste