Dirty nappies should be used to build new homes, following the example of a team in Japan.
The researchers calculated that used nappies – after being shredded and sanitised – could replace 8% of the sand used in concrete and mortar, and up to 40% in non-structural concrete.
They built a 387 sq ft house in Indonesia to prove the point, locking away 4,000 nappies.
The study, published in the journal Scientific Reports, said building regulations could be changed to allow this material to be used, as it would reduce the carbon footprint of the homes as well as finding a use for the otherwise non-recyclable waste.
According to a report by the Environment Agency, about 400,000 tonnes of nappies are disposed of in the UK each year. Most end up in landfill.
