One Walk, One Bag, One Big Problem
Let’s be honest. No one enjoys picking up dog poo. But if you’ve got a dog, you’ve got to do the decent thing. The problem is, most of us think we’re doing the eco-friendly thing too—thanks to those so-called “biodegradable” poo bags lining supermarket shelves.
Unfortunately, many of these bags are nothing more than plastic in disguise.
Greenwashing in the Dog Aisle
Terms like biodegradable, compostable, oxo-degradable, and eco-friendly are often used interchangeably—but they don’t mean the same thing. And some of them mean… absolutely nothing.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Oxo-degradable: Sounds good, right? Actually, these bags break down into microplastics—tiny particles that hang around in soil and waterways for decades.
- Biodegradable: Technically means it will break down, but when, where, and into what isn’t defined. Many biodegradable bags need industrial composting facilities, which are rare.
- Compostable: Now we’re talking. These are usually made from cornstarch or plant-based materials and break down fully under the right conditions—ideally in home compost or specialist facilities.
Top tip: Look for certifications like EN13432 or OK Compost HOME. If the bag doesn’t display them, be sceptical.
The Landfill Loophole
Even the greenest poo bag won’t perform miracles in landfill. Why? Because landfills are compacted, airless environments where even banana skins can take years to decompose. Compostable bags need oxygen and microbes to break down properly.
So if you’re throwing “eco” bags into a general waste bin, they’ll probably still be there in 20 years—just a bit squishier.
Better Poo Habits: What Can You Actually Do?
- Choose truly compostable bags – Look for plant-based materials, transparent certification, and ideally UK-made options with a low transport footprint.
- Avoid oxo-degradable plastics – These are a huge source of microplastic pollution.
- Try home composting (if you’re brave and well set-up) – With the right bin, sawdust, and know-how, dog poo can safely be composted—but only for non-edible plants.
- Support companies doing it right – Brands like Beco, Adios Plastic, and The Sustainable People offer certified compostable poo bags in recyclable packaging.
Bonus Round: What Not to Do
- Don’t flush dog poo unless it specifically says it’s safe—some parasites can contaminate water systems.
- Don’t leave bagged poo “biodegrading” on the trail—this helps no one and still leaves plastic behind.
- Don’t assume a green-coloured bag means anything. Spoiler: it doesn’t.
Final Scoop
If you’re picking up after your pup (gold star), you’re already doing the right thing socially. Now it’s time to do the right thing environmentally, too.
Because one small bag, used twice a day, adds up to over 700 bags per year per dog. And in the UK, with over 12 million dogs… well, that’s a lot of plastic heading to landfill or worse.