A major Japanese hygiene products maker recently launched the world’s first horizontally recycled disposable diapers at shopping centers in the southwest region of the country. Unicharm Corp., the manufacturer of these diapers, introduced the concept of “horizontal recycling,” where used products are transformed back into their original item. These recycled diapers are now available in 68 stores operated by retailer Aeon Kyushu Co.
In a photo taken in Kumamoto Prefecture on April 20, 2024, Tsutomu Kido, the senior executive officer of Unicharm Corp., can be seen holding some of the company’s products. Unicharm partnered with two local governments in Kagoshima Prefecture to develop a process for recycling the diapers. This process involves using ozone to eliminate bacteria and odors from the used products.
Initially, Unicharm began producing recycled adult diapers in 2022, which were distributed to hospitals and care homes for the elderly. Tsutomu Kido stated that the company aims to shift from a resource-intensive model to a more sustainable one. Experts have approved the hygiene standards of the recycled diapers.
The cost of a packet of 42 recycled diapers for children is 1,078 yen ($7), slightly higher than the price of the company’s regular disposable ones. Unicharm is pioneering in the field of recycling hygiene products and hopes to make a positive impact on the environment through their innovative approach.