A Lanarkshire MSP is calling for Scotland-wide free access to reusable nappy schemes to help families reduce bills as the cost of living soars.
It is estimated switching from single-use to reusable nappies could save households £1400 from ‘birth to potty’.
Only five local authorities in Scotland currently offer reusable nappy schemes, including Labour-led North Ayrshire Council’s comprehensive ‘birth to potty scheme.’
Reusable Nappy Week runs until May 1 and Central Scotland MSP Monica Lennon is asking the Scottish Government to end the postcode lottery, to give all households the same opportunity to use nappies that are “kinder on pocket and the planet.”
She said: “With households across Scotland juggling higher bills, the Scottish Government should help families switch to reusable nappies as they are kinder on pockets and the planet.
"A £1400 saving could make a huge difference and help reduce poverty and household debt.
“Unlike the millions of expensive single-use nappies that end up in landfill, reusables can be used over and over again from birth through to potty training.
“The cost of living crisis and the need to tackle the climate and nature emergencies means promoting greener and cheaper nappies is a no-brainer.
“It’s great that some councils in Scotland are championing reusable nappies but with a little extra support from the Scottish Government, everyone could benefit from access to free or low-cost schemes.
"Reusable Nappy Week is a great opportunity to take action.”
The Women’s Environment Network has been running Reusable Nappy Week since 1997 to highlight the benefits of reusable nappies to both families and the environment.
According to Zero Waste Scotland, by the time one baby is potty trained between 4000 to 6000 disposable nappies are sent to landfill. In comparison, a baby only needs around 20 to 30 reusable nappies and these can also be used by siblings.
Compared to the average overall cost of own-brand disposable nappies being £1875, the equivalent cost for reusable nappies is £400.
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