How Is Environmental Sustainability Shaping the Paper Diaper Industry?

Highlights:

• Introduction
• Reasons behind increased demand for paper diapers
• Rising focus on R&D activities and product launches

Paper diapers or nappies are a type of underwear manufactured using paper or similar disposable materials. Typically, paper diapers feature three layers of protection, in which the top layer and bottom layer are made from paper materials to allow passage of moisture through the nappy. The middle layer, also called the absorbent core, is designed to soak in all the waste materials to prevent the soiling of outer clothing, thus keeping the wearer clean and dry.

Transition toward paper diapers generating new growth opportunities

The concept of cloth and linen diapers emerged in England during the late 14th century. However, disposable nappies made from paper started gaining popularity in the 1930s. Over the years, the preference for these modern diapers has increased as compared to linen counterparts owing to the various advantages offered by paper nappies. Since cloth diapers are made from simple textiles and fabrics, their absorption capacity is minimal. On the other hand, disposable underwear feature gel or pulp-based super absorbents which offer enhanced protection from leakages. Moreover, FMCG companies have started developing diapers with leak guards around the leg openings which aid in providing an extra barrier to prevent the outflow of urine.

Parents often choose cloth diapers because they are soft and gentle. In contrast, disposable diapers can cause rashes, blisters, and discomfort. To address these issues, consumer goods brands have started developing moisture-wicking paper diapers that have in-built capillaries for superior absorption. This ultimately reduces the risk of nappy rashes and skin irritation, thereby improving infants’ health and wellness.

Along with this, the cost of paper diapers is an important factor influencing the growth of the industry. The price of traditional cloth or linen nappies is generally twice that of disposable underwear, which has surged the demand for these modern alternatives. Additionally, the ease of use and convenience offered by these contemporary options have increased the revenue share of the industry. In addition, the growing awareness regarding the importance of environmental sustainability has created new investment opportunities in the sector. In the last few years, FMCG brands have started opting for biodegradable raw materials to manufacture disposable nappies. The ecological pollution caused by polymer-based and plastic absorbent cores used in paper diapers has been the main reason behind this transition toward eco-friendly products.

Increasing investments by multinational companies helping the sector flourish

The growth in the number of investments by leading FMCG brands in sustainable disposable nappies is expected to help the paper diaper industry gather a revenue of $109.2 billion by 2034. The market accounted for $65.6 billion in 2023 and is projected to rise at a CAGR of 4.8% during       2024-2034. In the last few years, many of these top businesses have launched innovative products to facilitate the transition toward eco-friendly lifestyles and habits. For instance, in August 2023, VeryVery, a baby diaper manufacturer, unveiled a new line of sustainable nappies for its customer base in New Zealand. Made from 40% recycled plastic, the product features an ultra-absorbent, soft-cashmere design to offer the highest level of comfort and convenience to infants. Moreover, these diapers are free from harsh chemicals, chlorine, and latex, thus minimizing the chances of skin rashes and blisters.

Similarly, in August 2024, Soft N Dry Diapers Corp., a major consumer goods brand based in Canada, announced the launch of Tree Free diapers in California. These new nappies have been marketed in different countries through the company’s label partner, ecoSoft Diapers & Materials LLC. As per the study conducted by the firm, more than 10 million trees are cut annually to manufacture disposable diapers, thus contributing to global warming and climate change. To reduce the negative impact of this industry on the environment, the ecoSoft brand has invested heavily in R&D activities to design eco-friendly alternatives, thereby helping decarbonize the global economy.

In essence, the growing demand for paper diapers across the globe is mainly on account of the various advantages offered by disposable nappies. The comfort, convenience, and flexibility provided by these modern alternatives have led to many parents switching to paper diapers for their newborns and babies. The rising awareness regarding environmental sustainability is expected to positively impact the industry in the coming period.

Get in touch with our experts for more information on the evolving dynamics of the paper diapers market!

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