Plastic waste is just one consideration in creating a low-impact life. It's far from the be-all, end-all. In Mike Berners-Lee's book, How bad are bananas?, he is assessing the carbon dioxide emissions (or equivalent) of many things in our lives... and sometimes, plastic fares better. For example, a single-use carrier bag has lower emissions than a single use paper bag. Yep. 

However, for others, plastic waste is their primary concern. Plastic in oceans, microplastics in the bloodstream, plastic litter in their local woods... this is their priority. 

So, when making decisions for your dog's low-impact life, never strive for perfection. It's impossible. Just try to choose better. With that said, here's some of my decisions and observations. 

Choosing Eco-Friendly Poo Bags: Compostable vs Recycled

In the realm of sustainability, decisions are rarely black and white. Recently, I've researched further into the environmental implications of my choice between compostable and recycled poo bags. While compostable bags initially seemed appealing to avoid plastic and for their (I thought) potential to reduce harmful emissions during disposal, I have discovered this is not necessarily the case.

During a conversation with a representative from Beco, my favourite eco-brand, I learned that compostable bags, despite being made from plant materials, actually have a production footprint that involves virgin materials and intensive manufacturing processes. This means their emissions are actually higher than the (recycled) plastic ones! Therefore, they are only genuinely beneficial where people have a specific home composting setup that isn't feasible for many. Councils don't currently have the means of composting poo either. 

On the other hand, 100% recycled bags utilise materials already in circulation, contributing to a circular economy and reducing the demand for new plastics. Given that only a small fraction of UK plastic is recycled, supporting products made from post-consumer plastic is crucial.

Now I understand this, I'll be moving to 100% recycled when I've finished my current stock of compostable bags. 

Toy Destruction and Plastic Waste

Does your dog have a talent for tearing apart toys? It's a natural instinct for many dogs, but have you considered the environmental impact of this? Often made from virgin plastics, these toys contribute to our reliance on fossil fuels and generate waste that persists in our environment.

To mitigate this, there are eco-friendly alternatives. You can create toys from cardboard boxes filled with shredded paper and treats, or repurpose old cotton clothing into chewable delights. Alternatively, opt for toys designed with velcro parts that satisfy your dog's desire to destroy without creating unnecessary waste.

Minimising Plastic in Dog Treat Packaging

Packaging for dog treats is another area where we can reduce plastic waste. While some packaging can be recycled, the majority ends up in landfills. I strive to choose treats packaged in ways that minimise plastic use, such as pouches that can be disposed of in food waste bins or cardboard containers. It also means sometimes choosing the one with less plastic per food - the less of two evils. 

Beco and Naturaw offer options that align with my values of reducing plastic waste, while brands like Pooch & Mutt and Thrive provide treats in eco-friendly cardboard packaging. Additionally, purchasing loose treats from local pet shops that offer "fill your own" options or making homemade treats are great alternatives to consider.

Small changes in our purchasing decisions can have a significant impact on reducing plastic waste. What are your favourite dog treats, and are you willing to make a sustainable swap for your next purchase?

Final Thoughts

Being a responsible dog owner goes beyond providing love and care—it also involves making choices that benefit the planet for future generations (of dogs and of people!). Whether it's choosing eco-friendly poo bags, selecting sustainable toys, or opting for minimal plastic packaging for treats, every decision matters. Together, we can create a healthier environment for our furry friends and future generations.