The baby boom brings excitement to parents and those around them as the sign of vitality and expansion of global progeny. Global population is currently 7 billion people and estimated to grow to 9 billion people by the year 2050. All of us at some point went through the diapers and nappies stage as part of our stages of development in life. However, diapers are associated with significant environmental pollution and generate solid waste
Countries across the world are being encouraged to develop ways in which to make diapers not become a menace to society as well as a global health risk. Disposable diapers although they serve a convenient purpose, they can be a menace to municipalities and communities if they are not properly managed. In some cases these diapers are being burnt at uncontrolled dumpsites.
Diapers can generate ozone depleting substances during their decomposition processes. The main concerns have been due to the generation of plastic waste which is a key material in the modern day diapers. Traditional mothers in a few decades ago, used to have reusable or washable nappies. However due to hygienic concerns and global innovation, disposable ones have become more popular in many countries.
There is a serious risk of environmental contamination as a result of faecal matter. This unsavoury reality also brings to the fore the possibility of groundwater being contaminated.
Emergence of alternatives include the following:
- Washable cloth nappies
- Biodegradable diapers
The reusable diapers also come with their cost to the environment including a high water and carbon footprint. As manufacturers and researchers battle to come up with sustainable options, it is essential to ensure that those who currently use diapers, dispose them in an environmentally friendly manner.
