Smart Nappies: Why Moving to Reusable Nappies Is Important in Rural Areas

Disposable nappies are a silent but significant contributor to environmental pollution, especially in rural regions where waste management systems are either limited or entirely absent. At Environmental Rural Solutions (ERS), we’ve seen first-hand the impact that disposable nappies have on communities in the Matatiele region and beyond. Through our Smart Nappies project, partnered with Biddykins, WWF, the Nedbank Green Trust, the University Of The Western Cape and Matatiele Local Municipality, we aim to reduce nappy-related waste and support rural families in making a healthier, more sustainable choice.

The Environmental Cost of Disposable Nappies

Disposable nappies are typically made from a combination of plastic, synthetic fibres, and chemical absorbents. These materials are non-biodegradable and can take up to 500 years to break down. In communities without formal waste collection systems, disposable nappies are often burned or dumped in open fields and riverbanks, contributing to:

• • Soil and water pollution

• • The spread of harmful pathogens

• • Airborne toxins from burning plastics

This pollution places stress not only on local ecosystems but also on the health and well-being of residents — particularly children and vulnerable populations.

Livestock such as goats also ingest disposable nappies which ultimately leads to these animals getting sick and dying.

Economic Pressure on Rural Families

While disposable nappies may seem convenient, they come at a long-term financial cost. On average, a child uses four nappies per day, which quickly adds up. For families with limited income, the continual purchase of disposable nappies can divert funds from other essential needs such as food, school supplies, or transport. The death of livestock is also a huge financial loss for families, especially considering that livestock is ones main form of wealth in rural communities.

By contrast, reusable cloth nappies can be used repeatedly and often last from birth to potty training and passed on to another child. Though the initial purchase of reusable nappies requires an upfront investment, over time the savings are substantial — especially when supported by community-driven distribution efforts like those facilitated by ERS.

A More Sustainable and Healthier Option

In addition to their environmental and economic benefits, reusable nappies offer health advantages. Most cloth nappies are made from natural fibres, which:

• • Are less likely to cause skin irritation or nappy rash

• • Allow the baby’s skin to breathe

• • Avoid prolonged exposure to the chemicals used in disposable nappie

These benefits support not only physical health but also contribute to the overall dignity and comfort of children and toddlers in rural settings.

Local Barriers — and How ERS is Solving Them

Adopting reusable nappies in rural communities is not without its challenges. These include:

• • Limited access to clean water and washing facilities
    

• • Lack of initial funding for nappy kits
    

• • Cultural resistance or limited awareness of alternatives

ERS addresses these issues through an integrated approach. The Smart Nappies project includes:

• • Distribution of reusable nappy kits to selected households

• • Community education and training on cleaning and care methods

• • Ongoing support from Ecochamps and local ambassadors, who assist with behaviour change and community learning

This model not only reduces waste, but builds long-term resilience and knowledge within communities.

A Model for Scalable Impact

Since the project’s inception, ERS has partnered with local stakeholders to reach vulnerable households with young children. Already, we have seen early results in terms of waste reduction, cost savings, and community engagement.

The Smart Nappies initiative also ties into our broader mission of building sustainable rural futures through community-driven environmental solutions.

Join Us in Supporting Healthy & Sustainable Communities

At ERS, we believe that big change begins with small, thoughtful steps — and a single cloth nappy can make a significant difference. Our work in the Matatiele Municipality Rural Area demonstrates that when families are empowered with the right tools and knowledge, they can lead the way in creating healthier homes and ecosystems.

If you’re a donor, funder, or development partner looking to support tangible, grassroots change in rural South Africa, we invite you to learn more about Smart Nappies and our other initiatives.To get involved or contribute to this project, please contact us directly.