Over 500 million plastic dog waste bags are used annually in the U.S. alone.

These bags contribute to 0.6% of total plastic waste by mass, a non-negligible source of pollution.

Most are made from polyethylene—a plastic that can take over 500 years to degrade.

Landfill Conditions: In landfills, these bags lack the necessary conditions (like oxygen and microbial activity) to break down effectively, leading them to persist for centuries.

Microplastics: Some "biodegradable" plastics fragment into microplastics, which can infiltrate ecosystems and the food chain .

Water Contamination: Dog feces contain harmful bacteria and parasites. When left on the ground or improperly disposed of, they can wash into waterways, contaminating water sources .

Wildlife Hazards: Animals can mistake plastic bags for food, leading to ingestion that can be fatal. Additionally, bags can entangle wildlife, causing injury or death .

Reusable Waste Carriers: Devices like Pööt allow for the collection and transport of dog waste without the need for single-use bags.

Flushable Waste Systems: Some systems enable the flushing of dog waste, reducing reliance on plastic bags.

Compostable Bags: If your local municipality supports composting of pet waste, truly compostable bags can be an option. However, ensure they meet the necessary standards and your local facilities can process them.

Solid Waste Characterization: Dog Waste Bags – ScienceDirect

Compostable vs Biodegradable Bags – TIME Magazine

Methane Emissions from Organic Waste – EPA.gov

Plastic Bag Recycling Challenges – Waste Management Industry Reports

Oxo-Degradable Plastics and Microplastics – UN Environment Programme

Industrial Composting Limitations – US Composting Council

Pet Waste and Water Pollution – Ocean Blue Project

Environmental Impact of Plastic Bags – World Wildlife Fund (WWF)