Dirty diapers born again in Japan recycling breakthrough 01.04.2026

A groundbreaking pilot project in Shibushi, Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan, is pioneering the recycling of used diapers, primarily those from the elderly population, to create new diaper products. This initiative, led by hygiene product manufacturer Unicharm, aims to address the significant environmental challenge posed by billions of diapers being landfilled or incinerated annually in Japan. The process reuses the core material of diapers, offering a sustainable solution to reduce waste and meet the increasing demand for adult and even pet diapers in Japan's aging society. This "world first" project signifies a major step towards a circular economy in the hygiene product industry.

The Japan Times Full Article

















