By supporting Real Nappy Week, between 17^th and 23^th April, Hart District Council are hoping that parents will make the switch from disposable nappies to real nappies. Disposable nappies cannot be recycled and according to the Women’s Environmental Network make up about 4% household refuse, that’s an estimated 800,000 tonnes of waste going to landfill every year in UK – equivalent to 80,000 lorry loads.

What are real nappies? They range from traditional terry towelling to modern fitted nappies which offer all the benefits of disposables without the waste. By using reusable nappies, parents can also make savings of up to £600 per child per year according to The Real Nappy Association. Nappy laundering services also exist to cater from parents who want washable nappies without the washing.

Stuart Robbens, Recycling Officer from Hart District Council said, "Disposable nappies represent a large and very unpleasant part of the waste stream. By using washable nappies, parents are helping to save natural resources and reduce the enormous burden of waste."

For a leaflet on where you can buy reusable nappies, find a local nappy laundering service or more information contact Stuart Robbens, Hart District Council’s Recycling Officer on 01252 622122 extension 4535. Alternatively contact The Real Nappy Association on 0181 299 4519, Women’s Environmental Network on 0171 247 3327 or National Association of Nappy Laundering Services on 0121 693 4949.

Note to editors: General Waste, the mascot leading the War on Waste in Hampshire, the Chairman of Hart District Council, Councillor Mr Stocks, Margaret Bell from Nifty Nappies and Mrs Ruth Jarman and her daughter, Helen, will be available for a photo call at 10.30am on Tuesday 11 April 2000 with a pile of nappies (to represent the number of disposable nappies an average baby uses in one year) at Hart District Council’s offices, Harlington Way, Fleet.