The Comfort Loop

Too much plastic waste

With birth rates increasing in some parts of the world and ageing populations a significant factor in others, demand is rising for disposable nappies, period products, incontinence pads and similar items. Exacerbated by a multitude of product types and disposal routes, the resulting plastic waste stream is already out of control.

Designing a sustainable system

The Comfort Loop is a University College London project, led by Professor Mark Miodownik. It aims to design a sustainable, joined-up system covering production, use and disposal of absorbent hygiene products in the UK. Focused on fundamental research with potential for practical impacts, the research will harness the expertise of the NHS, charities, the recycling sector and local government.

Changing behaviour

Human behaviour is integral to the sustainable provision of absorbent hygiene products (AHPs). Achieving circular transitions will require behaviour changes across various groups in society, including but not limited to the general public, manufacturers, sellers, health and care providers, and policymakers at both local and national levels.

The behavioural science work package of Comfort Loop aims to investigate the potential of reduce and reuse behavioural strategies for minimising waste from disposable AHPs. Our goal is to identify barriers and enablers to behaviour change and determine the most effective interventions to address these factors, while maintaining the health and comfort of AHP users.