About Biodegradable Disposable Diapers

The new wave of eco-friendly items has many consumers purchasing anything that says "green" or "environmentally-friendly" on the package. While there are items out there that are certainly better for the earth, diapers isn't one of them. The proclaimed biodegradable diapers aren't any better than the normal disposable diapers.

Identification

Disposable and biodegradable diapers are made to absorb a baby's urine and feces. Once soiled they are thrown in the trash.

Chemicals

Biodegradable diapers are not much better for the environment that regular disposable diapers. Both contain the chemical AGM, a super absorbent gel material that is blended into the diapers cellulose core.

Effects

AGMs are non-toxic, bind water tightly and help control pH balance. Recent home studies, according to Pubmed.com, have shown that diapers containing AGMs keep the skin closer to it's normal pH level than cloth diapers, lowering the risk of dermatitis.

Significance

According to the California Integrated Waste Management Board, not even biodegradable diapers break down in a landfill. Landfills are not composting facilities and biodegradable diapers will not degrade well in a landfill.

Benefits

Any environmental advantage to disposable diapers lies in the manufacturing of the diaper. Biodegradable diapers use cornstarch in place of plastic, and refrain from using bleach like traditional disposable diapers, which places toxins in the air.

Fact

According to the National Association of Diaper Services, a baby will go through an average of 5,000 diapers by the time it has been potty trained.

Resources

• Diaper wars