Ernie Clark. Hilperton Division, Wiltshire Council.

Combat climate change by using real nappies.
This year’s Real Nappy Week theme is concentrating on how parents can help to combat climate change by using real nappies. The event is co-ordinated by the National real Nappy Campaign and supported by national brands such as Mothercare and John Lewis and local retailers across the country.

West Wiltshire District Council will be joining in the activities by holding a promotional stall in The Shires shopping centre on Thursday 24 April. Representatives will be available from from 11am – 2pm, giving advice and showcasing the merits, both financial and environmental, of using real nappies.

People will have the opportunity to take part in a competition run by Wiltshire Wildlife Trust called A Wish for your Baby. Winning prizes include an energy efficient washing machine and a supply of washable nappies.

Councillor Linda Conley, West Wiltshire District Council’s portfolio holder for the environment, said: “Disposable nappies produce a significant part of our waste stream; re-useable nappies are a viable alternative. Hopefully the promotional stall and competition will successfully inform more families of how easy it is to make the change to real nappies.”

Toby Sturgis, Wiltshire County Council’s cabinet member for planning and waste, said: "Every year 25 million nappies end up in a landfill in Wiltshire. Not only does it cost us all money, they also pollute the environment.

"That's why we help fund Wiltshire Wildlife Trust to encourage people to use real nappies and why we work in partnership with West Wiltshire District Council to promote positive events such as this.

"Real Nappy Week helps show that there are plenty of excellent alternatives to disposable nappies that don't cost the Earth."