Spoiler alert: Disposable diapers are terrible for the planet. They account for about 2% of all landfill waste in the US; worse – because they're made of plastics – they decompose very, very slowly. Before their arrival on the commercial scene in the 1960s babies were fully potty trained by 18 months. But thanks to this "convenient" option, these days the average potty training age is 3 years.
Andrea Olson is the voice behind the über popular method of bathroom training called elimination communication. On today's show Andrea explains the ways in which diaper companies play on our fears of being bad parents to push their single-use products; she also breaks down the steps she took to get her children out of diapers in half the time.
Here's a preview:
[4:45] Thoughts on intentionality in potty training as being better for both our children and the planet they will inherit
[9:00] A history of potty training: What did humans do before disposable diapers?
[16:00] Addressing common criticisms: Does elimination communication have adverse effects on a child's development?
[24:00] So how does it work, exactly?
Resources mentioned:
Our Sponsors:
* Thank you to LifeStraw! https://lifestraw.com/
Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/sustainable-minimalists/exclusive-content