Anthropocene Magazine · Health

Earlier Toilet Training Could Help Reduce Plastic Waste

A shift towards earlier toilet training, reversing a decades-long trend, could significantly reduce the growing global waste crisis caused by disposable diapers and other absorbent hygiene products.

The average toilet training age has increased since the 1950s. This, combined with a move to disposable diapers, has increased waste. Globally, over 300,000 diapers are discarded every minute, contributing to pollution and contaminated water.

Absorbent hygiene product waste amounts to 160-200 million metric tons annually, making up nearly a tenth of global municipal solid waste. Researchers emphasize the urgency of addressing this issue.

Researchers propose three strategies: reducing disposable product use, developing recycling technologies, and creating compostable alternatives.

Earlier toilet training requires changes in workplace and childcare systems. It also offers benefits for children's health and development.

Recycling diapers is challenging due to their complex composition. Existing facilities often recycle only parts of the diaper.

Developing compostable products requires materials that break down safely. New technologies are needed to remove pathogens and residues.

Researchers are studying global toilet training practices to gain insights and identify areas where support is lacking.

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