As Earth Day approaches on April 22nd, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing environmental challenges we face globally. The inception of Earth Day in April 1970 marked a pivotal moment in history when environmental consciousness began to permeate the national agenda. Fast forward to the present, and the ethos of Earth Day resonates even more deeply, especially among younger generations, who are increasingly embracing conscious consumerism.
Today, consumers, particularly Gen Zers and millennials, are actively seeking environmentally friendly alternatives in all aspects of their lives. Earth Day campaigns have played a significant role in influencing their purchasing decisions, with three-quarters of Gen Zers attributing their environmentally conscious choices to these initiatives.
Amidst this growing environmental awareness, the pet care industry faces its own set of challenges, with sustainability emerging as a pressing concern. One such challenge is the need for sustainable dog poop bags. While picking up after our furry friends is a routine part of pet ownership, the environmental impact of pet waste cannot be ignored.
There are an estimated 900 million dogs worldwide, with 89.7 million pet dogs in the US alone. Improperly disposed of dog waste can contaminate water sources and pose health risks to humans and wildlife alike. Burying dog waste is not the same as composting, as compostable bags need to be in a unique microbial environment of a pungent, rotting-down compost heap. Burying dog waste near a watershed could release pathogens into groundwater, which then end up in rivers and the sea. Bacteria from dog poo can cause algal blooms and shut down beaches for swimming or shellfishing. There is a possibility of spreading diseases like camphylobacter, tapeworm, hookworm, roundworm, giardia, E.coli, and salmonella, according to the CDC.
The proliferation of plastic dog poop bags has further contributed to plastic pollution, exacerbating global environmental issues. The sheer volume of disposable dog poop bags - 415 billion annually - underscores the urgency of finding sustainable solutions to this problem.
Biodiversity devastation is another issue, with nitrogen and phosphorus found in dog foods being deposited in dog waste, which affects plant growth. Certain plants thrive on these nutrients, while others do not, leading to an inequity that exaggerates wildlife dependence on less dominant plant types for food and shelter. Eutrophication is another ecological issue linked to increased levels of nitrogen and phosphorus. When fish and other marine life die and decay, they consume too much oxygen in the water, causing it to become dark green and hypoxic. Global warming is already decreasing oxygen levels in our waters, so it is crucial to prevent further exacerbation by adding more nutrients and pushing aquatic ecosystems closer to the edge.
Pets A Go Go®, a trailblazer in the pet care industry, has taken a proactive stance in addressing this issue. As the first and only pet care company in the tri-state area to embrace environmental sustainability fully, Pets A Go Go has implemented a range of eco-friendly practices with its Dogs Gone Green® initiative. From utilizing biodegradable and compostable poop bags to adopting low-emission vehicles and employing local residents to reduce carbon footprint, Pets A Go Go is leading by example.
In addition to sustainable waste management practices, Pets A Go Go prioritizes the use of natural, GMO-free, and organic products in their facilities. These dog daycare centers are setting a new standard for environmentally conscious pet care by avoiding harmful chemicals and non-recyclable materials.
However, the challenges facing the pet care industry extend beyond waste management, as seen by this 15-year-old company. Pet professionals are needed for the expected continued rapid growth of this industry. In addition, concerns about workplace safety, fair wages, and professional standards loom large. Pets A Go Go recognizes the importance of professionalization within the industry and advocates for regulatory measures to ensure the welfare of both pets and pet care professionals. While the pet care industry remains largely unregulated, Pets A Go Go sets high standards for its staff, prioritizing training, safety, and ethical practices.
As we celebrate Earth Day and reflect on our collective responsibility to protect the planet, Pets A Go Go serves as a reminder that small actions can have a significant impact. Nicole Rigger, the visionary behind this company, aims to bring attention to this to today’s youth, stating, “As stewards of the earth, it’s our responsibility to leave behind a planet that’s thriving, not suffering. Every small decision we make, from the products we choose to the practices we adopt, has the power to shape the future. So, to the young generation, I say: embrace your role as changemakers, challenge the status quo, and lead with compassion. Together, we can create a world where sustainability is not just a goal, but a way of life.” Whether it’s choosing biodegradable poop bags or supporting eco-conscious businesses, each decision we make contributes to a more sustainable world for future generations.
Media Contact
Name: Nicole Rigger
Email: [email protected]
