Solve the riddle: It's full of sh*t and contaminates the planet. No, I didn't mean humans. The correct answer is a dog poop bag.
But it's not their fault; we made them this way because for a long time, we ourselves didn't know there was another way. However, it's within our power to help them be a better version of themselves. We can't do anything about the sh*t part, but at least we can help reduce contamination by using plant-based, compostable eco-friendly dog poop bags.
By the way, if you are interested in how to deal with home waste, here's a great waste-management solution for the little kitchen that I found.
Why are Compostable Plant-Based Trash Bags Better than Plastic Ones?
Break down faster: While it takes hundreds of years for a plastic bag to decompose, biodegradable ones can do so in just a few months under the right conditions. This significantly reduces the burden on landfills.
Less harmful to wildlife: Plastic bags can harm wildlife; animals may ingest them or become entangled, which can be fatal. Compostable and biodegradble bags break down more quickly, posing a lesser risk over time.
Reduced dependency on fossil fuels and lower carbon footprint: Traditional plastic bags are made from petroleum, while biodegradable bags are made from plant-based materials. This reduces the dependency on fossil fuels and the associated environmental impacts, including CO2 emissions.
Lower toxic impact: As they decompose, plastic bags release toxins into the environment. Compostable bags, made from natural materials, don’t have this issue.
Here Are Eco-Friendly Dog Poop Bags:
By the way, these bags are not only for dogs. I use these eco-friendly bags for cat litter, and they are also great for disposing of really stinky trash like shrimp guts or rotten food found in the depths of a fridge.
Also, please choose bags that come in paper packaging (ideally bamboo) with a cardboard core tube. It's insane how often producers use plastic in places where it's absolutely unnecessary.
What Are Eco-Friendly Dog Poop Bags Made of?
Compostable dog poop bags are usually made of plant-based materials such as cornstarch, BPAT (a compostable polymer), edible glycerin, and vegetable oils. In a composting environment, they decompose within several months and do not create microplastics as they break down.
What Is the Difference Between Biodegradable and Compostable Dog Poop Bags?
The main difference lies in how they break down. Biodegradable bags decompose into smaller pieces, potentially including microplastics or residues. Compostable bags, on the other hand, break down into non-toxic, nutrient-rich compost. The term 'biodegradable' is vague and lacks specific certification standards, whereas compostable bags must meet strict criteria to ensure they decompose safely and completely, turning into humus that supports plant growth without leaving behind harmful residues.
Are Eco-Friendly Dog Poop Bags as Durable and Leak-Proof as Traditional Plastic Bags?
Yes, eco-friendly dog poop bags can be just as durable and leak-proof as traditional plastic bags. However, it depends on the design, thickness, and overall quality. Cheap, poorly made plastic waste bags can be leaky, too. Choose bags with good reviews, and pick ones that highlight their leak-proof quality and durability.
Do Eco-Friendly Dog Poop Bags Have a Shelf Life?
Yes, eco-friendly dog poop bags typically have a shelf life that depends on the materials used and storage conditions. Manufacturers usually suggest using bags in 12 to 24 months. Check the packaging for any mentioned shelf life and store the bags in a cool, dry place to maximize their lifespan.
What’s Wrong With Recycled Plastic Trash Bags?
Producers of plastic goods often brag about using recycled materials. It’s better than using non-recycled materials, I agree. But if we put dog poop inside these bags, they have zero chance of being recycled again and will stay in a landfill for centuries, breaking down into microplastics and releasing toxins. Many items can be effectively recycled, so let's produce them from recycled plastic, not poop bags.
Where Can Eco-Friendly Dog Poop Bags be Purchased?
It depends greatly on the region. Sometimes, you can purchase them at a basic local supermarket, but in many areas, there is still a lack of eco-friendly options. Try checking pet stores and eco-friendly shops, or you can always rely on Amazon.
Can I Put Compostable Poop Bags in the Organic Waste Bin?
Not really. Even though eco-frindly bags work best when composted, it’s almost never possible to dispose of them in an organic waste bin, as very few professional composting facilities accept this kind of waste. This is due to the potential presence of bacteria and parasites. So please check with your local composting facility to see what they do and don't accept.
As a general rule, dog poop in a compostable bag should go to general waste and then to a landfill, at least for now. Unfortunately, it decomposes less efficiently due to the lack of oxygen, but it's still better than polluting the planet with plastic waste.
Can I Compost Biodegradable Poop Bags at Home?
Yes, you can compost it at home. However, please be cautious. Even though you can compost this type of waste at home, be aware that using this compost in a garden where you grow edible plants might be dangerous due to the potential risk of bacteria and parasite contamination.
