Let’s cut to the chase (pun intended) – biodegradable dog poo bags are hogwash. Or actually, they’re greenwash. We know that’s different from what a lot of poo bag companies will tell you. But here’s the thing – your dog’s poo, in most cases, isn’t safe for composting. In nearly all places where we sell products, putting pet waste in with compost waste is illegal. And if you’re sending it to landfill (which you should be), you want it in a bag that helps prevent methane emissions. Excuse us while we get a bit sciencey… 

We know It might seem weird to send poo to landfill, but poop isn't like other organic waste. It can contain pathogens, which are risky for human and environmental health. Home composting dog waste is not recommended because the compost must reach temperatures of at least 60°C to reduce pathogens. Although these conditions can be achieved in most community compost programs, concerns about occupational health and safety and the quality of the final compost (especially if it's going to be used to grow food) mean that many compost operators don’t accept pet waste. 

Now let’s talk about landfills. They’re actually anaerobic environments, meaning biodegradable bags will break down without oxygen. And methane, a greenhouse gas more potent than carbon dioxide, is released as they break down. On the other hand, plastic in a landfill degrades so slowly that it’s considered sequestered (aka captured) and minimises negative climate impact.

All this to say, if waste is going to landfill, plastic is the more sustainable option. Still, we don’t like the idea of making new plastic just to throw it away (which is how most plastic poo bags are made). Especially since over 400 million tonnes of plastics are produced each year, and just a small fraction of them are turned into new items. 

That’s why we made our pet poo bags from 100% recycled plastic. It’s strong and sturdy like regular plastic (no poke-throughs, we promise), reduces dangerous methane emissions and gives plastic the second life it deserves. 

P.S. If you’re not picking up your dog's poo, what the heck?