Bioplastics specialist Novamont (Novara / Italy; www.novamont.com) has collaborated with Italian nappy manufacturer WIP (Prato; www.ecowip.com) in developing a diaper that has a biodegradability index of at least 80%, claimed to be the highest available. Using starch-based biodegradable �Mater-bi� polymer, the �Natura� brand of disposable nappies uses 14 elements in its manufacture, of which eight are sustainable � representing 80% of the materials used. It is planned to increase the biodegradability index to over 90% and achieve compostability certification.

WIP on 20 January 2010 opened a low environmental impact plant in the Casentino Valley, 40 km from Arezzo in central Italy, to produce the �Natura� hypoallergenic nappies. In addition to using biodegradable materials in manufacture, the plant will boast many other energy-efficient features that will allow a reduction in the consumption of electricity, which is planned to be sourced in part through a combination of solar and wind power.

Founded in 2005, WIP already successfully distributes numerous other hygiene and cosmetic products for babies and women under the "Natura�" brand, all made of renewable resources, including the PLA-based "Ingeo" biopolymer developed by NatureWorks (Minnetonka, Minnesota / USA; www.natureworksllc.com).