World Environment Day 2025’s theme is ‘Beat Plastic Pollution’. So let's look into ways you can green your dog's routine and reduce plastic waste in your home and for your pup.
Biodegradable Poop Bags
According to Friends of the Earth, there are around 51 million pets in the UK, and an estimated 3.6 billion plastic bags are used for dog waste per year. One option to replace single use plastic bags is biodegradable poop bags. Cornstarch, enhanced with a biodegradable copolymer, is the ideal solution. By itself that reduces plastic consumption. There are also brands that reduce ash waste if incinerated, or can be composted (in special facilities).
Sustainable Pet Food
There are so many pawsome ways to make dog food more sustainable! One is to look for zero waste dog kibble refill stations! Still quite rare, but a great idea and it often works out cheaper by the pound.
Another great option is dog food made from locally caught fish. This is a great protein source, which is a lot more eco-friendly, has lower food miles and are better for the environment overall. Hardcore greenies can also try insect protein for dogs!
Alternatively, a raw dog food diet is a fantastic option, especially if you're lucky enough to have local butchers! It often uses less plastic than kibble or wet food tins, and some raw food companies prioritise sustainable packaging, including compostable and recycled materials. Plus, many raw diet materials can be purchased in bulk, minimising waste.
If you're more of the top chef type, we have some fantastic recipes that are perfect to make for your furry friend, including some fabulous frozen doggy treats for this summer.
(Always consult your vet before altering your dog’s diet).
Fabric Toys
Now, a lot of dog toys are made of plastic which isn't great for the environment. However you can get eco-friendly plastic free toys that are still super fun while reducing waste. These can be made from cotton, felt, off-cuts of leather, or eco-friendly fabrics like jute, bamboo and hemp - which are even better for the environment.
Fabric toys are fantastic for offering comfort, emotional support, and entertainment to dogs. They can also reduce destructive behaviours while providing a sense of security - they can even help during storms.
Even better, why not try DIY? This can be cheaper and more sustainable. It reduces plastic packaging and you can tailor the toys to your dog's favourite textures and play needs. Right here at BorrowMyDoggy, we have some fantastic DIY craft projects that are lots of fun for human and pup.
To start, why not try our upcycled DIY denim dog toy which is super fun and easy to make. Or if you're a little more advanced, you could try the tennis ball and t-shirt tug toy which can be crafted leftover old clothes.
Clean and Green
If you want to be clean and green, let's look at ways to make your dog's bath time more eco-friendly!
One great place to start is with dog-specific, plant based shampoos, ideally in bar form to reduce plastic waste. These are usually wrapped in recyclable paper or come in cute tins, rather than liquid in plastic bottles. Some even combine shampoo and conditioner to make bath time quicker. Using a doggy bath mitt can also help you reduce the amount of soap you need, and make bath time more fun for your dog.
Alternatively, this summer, why not consider washing your four-legged friend outside with sun-warmed paddling pool water? Afterward, get them dry with a bamboo dog towel. Finish with some gorgeous eco friendly grooming brushes - look for FSC® certified wood, bamboo or coconut fibre.
All Aboard
Another great way to be eco-friendly is to consider public transport. Public transport reduces emissions per passenger and minimises road congestion. By carrying more passengers than private vehicles, they produce less carbon per person. It can also be a lot more fuel efficient, and some areas even have electric buses and trams, reducing emissions further.
Replacing car trips with public transport can help reduce CO2 emissions by 42% if using the bus and 73% if travelling by train.
Dogs are allowed on most public transport in the UK, including trains, buses, and even some taxis - although it's always best to check ahead of time. Most tram lines are friendly, including the Manchester Metrolink, Edinburgh Trams and Blackpool Transport. Dogs need to be well behaved and usually on lead, but it’s still a great way to get around, especially while on holiday.
Need an extra walk or some company for your pup? Sign up and match with verified, local dog borrowers today!
