Eco-Friendly Poo Bags: A Dog Owner's Guide to Sustainable Waste Management
Eco-Friendly Poo Bags
We all share the responsibility of cleaning up after our furry friends. It's a necessary task that keeps our parks, countryside, and neighbourhoods clean and hygienic. However, have you ever stopped to consider the environmental impact of the humble poo bag? With millions of dogs in the UK alone, the number of plastic bags used for this purpose is staggering! The good news is that there's an ever-growing movement towards more eco-conscious solutions. In this blog, we'll explore the world of environmentally friendly poo bags and why they're essential for every eco-conscious dog owner.
Why poo bags are not the same when it comes to eco-friendly credentials
At first glance, all poo bags might seem alike. After all, they serve the same basic function. However, when it comes to their environmental impact, not all poo bags are created equal. Traditional plastic bags can take hundreds of years to break down, contributing to the ever-growing problem of plastic pollution in our oceans and landfills. Just because poo bags are described as being made from recycled materials, doesn't always mean that they aren't plastic.
On the other hand, eco-friendly poo bags are designed to minimise their environmental footprint. These bags are made from materials that break down more quickly and safely, reducing their long-term impact on the planet. But even within the category of eco-friendly bags, there are important distinctions to be made.
What is the difference between degradable, biodegradable & compostable poo bags?
Terms you'll often encounter when shopping for environmentally friendly poo bags are "biodegradable" and "compostable". While these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they actually refer to different processes and have distinct implications for the environment.
Adios Plastic helps to explain the difference: "Degradable bags are commonly mistaken for biodegradable bags. A degradable bag is a petroleum-based plastic bag that can take up to 1000 years to break down, all the while building up within the food chain and having potentially devastating effects on the animals that consume them."
"Biodegradable bags are basically degradable bags with an EPI additive to speed up the breakdown process. It is not clear how long biodegradable bags with this additive take to break down and the science behind it is not widely supported.
They also state that the difference between oxo-biodegradable and compostable is really important. "While compostable bags decompose completely leaving behind no harmful chemicals; oxo-biodegradable bags leave behind micro-plastic particles as they decompose. These particles can be problematic as they are often made from petroleum products. Aidos Plastic’s bags are not oxo-biodegradable. They are 100% compostable to the EU standard of EN13432."
Adios Plastic’s poo bags are 100% biodegradable and compostable – meaning that they can safely break down back into the Earth within 90 days when composted" They are available in 6 different colours, with or without tie handles and there's even a convenient and easy to manage subscription service, so you don't have to worry about running out!
What should you look for when choosing a poo bag brand?
When selecting an eco-friendly poo bag brand, there are several factors to consider:
- Certification: Look for bags that have been certified as compostable by recognised organisations such as the Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI) or the European standard EN 13432.
- Material: Check what the bags are made from. Some sustainable options include bags made from corn starch, vegetable oils, or other plant-based materials.
- Thickness and durability: While eco-friendly, the bag should still be strong enough to do its job without tearing or leaking.
- Packaging: Consider brands that use minimal or recyclable packaging for their poo bags.
- Company ethics: Research the brand's overall commitment to sustainability. Do they support environmental initiatives or use eco-friendly practices in their production?
- Price: While eco-friendly options may be slightly more expensive, compare prices to ensure you're getting good value for money.
- Size and quantity: Make sure the bags are appropriately sized for your dog and that the quantity per package suits your needs.
By considering these factors, you can choose a poo bag brand that aligns with your eco-conscious values while still meeting your practical needs as a dog owner.
Say no to plastic poo bags!
The shift away from traditional plastic poo bags is not just a trend – it's a necessary step towards more sustainable pet ownership. As we become increasingly aware of the environmental impact of our daily choices, saying goodbye to plastic poo bags is a small but significant change we can all make.
By opting for compostable alternatives, we can significantly reduce the amount of plastic waste entering our ecosystems. These eco-friendly options break down much faster than traditional plastic, minimising their long-term impact on the environment.
Moreover, the move towards sustainable poo bags often goes hand-in-hand with a broader shift in consciousness. Many dog owners who make this switch find themselves considering other aspects of their pet care routine, from choosing eco-friendly toys to opting for sustainably sourced pet food.
It's not just about picking it up!
It's important to remember that while using eco-friendly poo bags is a great step, proper disposal is equally crucial. Even biodegradable or compostable bags should be disposed of responsibly. Leaving poo bags on the ground/in fields can still pose health threats to children, wildlife, and farm animals. Tying bags to hedges or trees is unfathomable when people have taken the time to pick up! Don't forget you can face a fine for not picking up after your dog.
What can dog owners do to set a good example?
Speaking to BBC Countryfile Magazine, on the matter, the Kennel Club Secretary, Caroline Kisko says: "Dog owners should always clean up after their dogs and dispose of the waste appropriately and the vast majority do, however, a small minority who do not can give all dog owners a bad name.
"A lack of bins in an area, particularly public footpaths through the countryside and woodland areas can be frustrating, but is not an excuse to hang dog waste bags in trees or leave them on the ground as some people seem to do.
"Owners should keep their dog waste bags with them until they can find a dog waste bin or regular litter bin, or should take it home with them to dispose of it properly."
Animal welfare charity Dogs Trust also says that if there are no specific dog waste bins available, it is possible to put bagged mess in a public litter bin.
Check with your local council about the best way to dispose of dog waste in your area. Some communities have special composting programs for pet waste, while others recommend disposing of it in designated bins.
A helping hand!
Here are some of our poo bag-related top tips!
We think there's not much worse than having to carry a used poo bag (or two) around when there's no bin in sight. To help make dog walks a more enjoyable and a poo bag hands-free experience, why not invest in a poo bag holding gadget! With various styles, shapes, and colours on the market, these often, inexpensive, yet very handy pieces of kit make transporting a used poo bag much easier in the absence of a nearby disposal bin. They can be clipped on to leads, dog walking bags, and even children's pushchairs.
In places where bins are few and far between, you may just have to take your used poo bags home with you to dispose of. There are specially designed bags with durable fastenings and even built-in air fresheners to safely carry and store your used poo bags until you can safely dispose of them.
Or if you are looking for the most budget-friendly option and are of the recycle and reuse mindset, you can always reuse a metal tin with a lid and keep it in the boot of your car, should you find yourself in the situation of having to take used poo bags home to dispose of. Just remember to empty it when you get home or if you pass a bin on the way!
For those looking to take their eco-friendly efforts a step further, consider products like Green & Wild's Posh Poo Bag Pouch or the Paw Poo Bag Pouch. These reusable pouches are designed to carry your eco-friendly poo bags in style, reducing the need for additional plastic packaging. Made from sustainable materials, these pouches are not only practical but stylish and include a chrome spring clip to attach them to a lead, dog walking bag, or your clothes. If you are fed up with plastic holders, your pockets, or tying bags around a lead (as we were!) you’ll love one of these. A lovingly crafted pouch, fit for any high street, dog field or walk!
All the small things can make a big difference.....
As dog owners, we have a responsibility not only to our pets but also to the environment. Choosing the most eco-friendly poo bags is a simple yet effective way to reduce our environmental impact while still keeping our communities clean. By understanding the differences between the various types of eco-friendly bags and knowing what to look for when choosing a brand, we can make informed decisions.
Remember, every small action counts. By switching to sustainable and eco-friendly poo bags, you're contributing to a larger movement towards more eco-conscious pet ownership. It's a little change that, when adopted by many, can have a significant positive impact on our planet.