PARENTS and carers across Wychavon are being urged to keep disposable nappies out of their recycling bins as part of a new campaign
Analysis shows used nappies are often found among the contents of green bins, even though they are not recyclable.
This costs thousands of pounds to deal with and risks contaminating other recyclables, causing them to be rejected instead of turned into new products.
The Ted Says campaign features a loveable bear called Ted, delivering a simple message to residents to make sure they put disposable nappies in black bins.
Look out for Ted on posters at railway stations, supermarkets and other places across the district as well as on social media.
Keep Britain Tidy devised the campaign following research into why people felt it was acceptable to dump disposable nappies in their recycling.
The findings revealed genuine confusion amongst the public about whether disposable nappies were recyclable caused by packaging information.
Some people also mistakenly believe they can be recycled because they are made from paper and plastic.
Residents are also encouraged to consider using reusable nappies for some or part of the time to help reduce the three billion disposable nappies thrown away every year in the UK.
Councillor Emma Stokes, Wychavon’s executive board member for resources, investment and innovation, said: “We want to support families in making a more environmentally friendly choice.
“Modern reusable nappies are a far cry from the terry towelling of old.
“They are easy to use, come in fantastic designs, and are incredibly effective. Crucially, they significantly reduce the amount of waste going into black bins.”
Worcestershire Nappy Library offers expert advice and free trial kits, allowing parents to try different types of reusable nappies before committing to a purchase.
Visit www.letswasteless.com/nappies to find out more.
