Abstract
Substantial disposable nappy waste is generated in the UK and Ireland contributing the equivalent weight of 14 (13.81) aircraft carriers to landfill, annually. Despite cloth nappies offering a sustainable alternative, their use remains low; little academic literature explores nappy use as a behaviour. This thesis investigates motivations and barriers to cloth nappy use. A mixed methods approach utilised a survey(n=1588); story completion (n=38); and focus groups (n=24) revealing four major themes. Key findings identify environmental self-identity as the primary motivation for cloth nappy users. Main barriers include inconvenience, lack of services and infrastructure, and financial risk avoidance. Social and cultural expectations, including group dynamics, significantly influence overcoming barriers; behavioural nudges rely on social networks and infrastructure. This thesis contributes to studying pro-environmental behaviour in households through a comprehensive mixed methods investigation. It furthers understanding of factors influencing behaviours within households with young children. It adds nuance, insights, and quantitative evidence to previous literature. Specifically, it highlights the key role of social and cultural dynamics operating within parenting communities, shaped by history and the challenges of disposable nappy use as the default. It explores intergroup conflict between nappy user groups and significant influence of social identity.Methodologically, the research developed a research tool integrating automatic and reflective thinking for understanding complex decisions. Findings inform policies to reduce disposable nappy waste and support the work of circular economy initiatives. Notably, this research has been presented to the Dutch Cirkular Diaper Program for the Dutch Department of Infrastructure and Water, cited in a report published by the Scottish devolved government, and mentioned during a debate on nappy waste in the Northern Ireland Assembly. The research model is applicable to other household sustainable behaviours. Recommendations include targeting barriers (infrastructure and services), making sustainable options the default, providing financial assistance, and normalising sustainable behaviours.
Thesis is embargoed until 30 June 2027
| Date of Award | Jun 2025 |
|---|---|
| Original language | English |
| Sponsors | Department for the Economy |
| Supervisor | Suzanne Beech (Supervisor) & Sara Benetti (Supervisor) |
Keywords
- nappies
- reusable
- cloth nappies
- household sustainability
- pro-environmental behaviour
- sustainable living
- consumption
- social identity
- motherhood