USING washable nappies has been praised as a way of helping families slash their carbon emissions.

A study by the Environment Agency, a public body for protecting and improving the environment, claims washable nappies can save 40 per cent of carbon emissions compared to disposables.

It says that simply washing nappies in fuller loads in an energy efficient machine and line drying them provides a carbon reduction, while reusing nappies on a second child saves even more.

Their use also diverts large amounts of waste from landfill and incinerators while helping families save on the amount they spend.

Lewisham Council has run a real nappy campaign in the borough since last year.

And in April it marked Real Nappy Week with events including ‘nappucinos’, featuring discussions on the nappies’ benefits for parents and the environment.

In Lewisham, disposable nappies are incinerated but the impact on the environment can be reduced if they are not used at all.

Biba Hartigan of Women's Environmental Network (WEN), an organisation for women and the environment, said: "At last, this report supports what WEN has been stating for decades - real nappies are best for the environment with 40 per cent carbon savings to be made over disposables.

“It's easy to make a difference with a sensible washing routine. It's just common sense - and parents can save money with real nappies too."

The organisation set up its Real Nappy Campaign to help local authorities promote the use of reusable nappies.

It estimates the UK throws away around 3 billion disposable nappies every year.

They are thought to weigh some 690,000 tonnes, most of which is sent to landfill where they generate methane, a powerful greenhouse gas.

For more information visit realnappiesforlondon.org.uk