Feasibility study into uptake of reusable nappies in Melbourne
Monash Council has led a reusable nappy feasibility study with 12 other Melbourne Councils to research and understand how to implement a best practice reusable nappy program.
With Councils estimating that five to 15 per cent of household landfill bins contain disposable nappies (by weight), the Reusable Nappy Feasibility Study and related research was designed to:
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- Explore the effectiveness of local government reusable nappy programs
- assess the performance of reusable nappy products
- understand community behaviour and attitudes in relation to reusable nappies
- Assist in the development of a best practice model for a reusable nappy program that encourages long term behaviour change and waste reduction.
Social research was also undertaken with 2,282 expectant parents and current parents and carers across Melbourne. Here in Moonee Valley 162 parents and carers of young children took part in the survey.
This research found 34 per cent of participants used a combination of reusable and disposable nappies, with 18 per cent using reusable nappies only. With as many as 90 per cent of expectant parents and carers open to assistance to help make the switch to reusables through interventions like workshops, trial kits or advice from a trusted source.
Removing cost as a barrier was not a prominent reason for continued use of reusable nappies amongst current users, and people who were already using reusable nappies were more than twice as likely as those who use disposables to find a rebate appealing.
To support ongoing use and uptake, the study recommends Councils deliver more education and more opportunities for expectant families and the community to experience and connect with reusable nappy programs and products.
The Reusable Nappy Feasibility Report, including the Executive Summary document, can be found at: https://shape.monash.vic.gov.au/reusable-nappies