What Stinks?

A Cradle to Grave Analysis of theDisposable Diaper

By Rene’ Rodriguez

Race, Poverty, & the Urban EnvironmentProfessor Raquel R. PinderhughesSan Francisco State UniversitySpring 2003Public has permission to use material herein, but only if author, course, university, and professor are credited.

Introduction

This presentation focuses on the disposable diaper. Ittakes you through the cradle to grave life cycle of thediaper, paying particular attention to the social,environmental, and public health aspects associatedwith the diaper.We start by looking at the history of the diaper andhow it has evolved from its simple roots. We thenanalyze the raw materials used to make thedisposable diaper, production, distribution,consumption, and its waste site, all the while focusingon the harmful impacts these processes have on theenvironment and

surrounding communities.

Diaper Evolution

TIME PRODUCT ABSORBENT OUTER COVER

Pre-industrial era“Primitive” diaperGrass, moss, leaves, linenor cottonAnimal skins, swaddlingbands (linen or wool)Late 1800sEarly diaperLinen or cottonKnitted wool1880Safety pin1930s-1960sCommercial launderingservices1940sModern cloth diaperCottonRubber pant1950sModern cloth diaperCottonPlastic pant1961Disposable diaperCellulosePlasticMid-1980sDisposable diaperSuperabsorbent materialPlasticLate 1990sDisposable diaperSuperabsorbent materialBreathable cover