Can Dog Poop Bags Go In Compost?

November 17, 2023

As a dog owner, you know the importance of picking up after your furry friend. But what do you do with the waste once you’ve bagged it? Can dog poop bags go in compost?

In this article, we’ll explore the use of compostable dog poop bags and whether they are truly environmentally friendly.

The Problem with Traditional Dog Waste Bags

Plastic Pollution

Traditional dog waste bags are made from plastic, which is not biodegradable and can take hundreds of years to decompose. This means that every time you use a plastic dog poop bag, you are contributing to the growing problem of plastic pollution.

According to the Ocean Conservancy, plastic bags are one of the top 10 items found in beach cleanups. These bags can harm marine life and pollute our oceans, rivers, and lakes.

Landfill Space

In addition to the environmental impact, traditional dog poop bags also take up valuable space in landfills. As more and more waste is produced, landfills are filling up at an alarming rate. By using plastic dog poop bags, you are contributing to this problem and taking up space that could be used for more sustainable waste.

The Solution - Compostable Dog Waste Bags

What Exactly Are Compostable Dog Poop Bags?

Compostable dog poop bags are made from plant-based materials, such as cornstarch, that are designed to break down in a composting environment. This means that they are biodegradable and will not contribute to plastic pollution or take up space in landfills.

How Do They Work?

Compostable dog poop bags are designed to break down in a composting environment, which means they need to be disposed of properly. This can be done by placing them in a compost bin or by sending them to a commercial composting facility.

In a composting environment, the bags will break down into organic matter, which can then be used as a nutrient-rich soil amendment for plants. This is a much more sustainable and environmentally friendly option compared to traditional plastic bags.

Are Compostable Dog Poop Bags Truly Environmentally Friendly?

While compostable dog poop bags may seem like the perfect solution to the problem of plastic waste, there are some factors to consider before declaring them completely environmentally friendly.

Proper Disposal

Compostable dog poop bags need to be disposed of properly in order to break down in a composting environment. If they are not disposed of properly, they may end up in a landfill where they will not break down and will contribute to the problem of plastic waste.

Additionally, if they are not disposed of properly, they may contaminate other compostable materials and render them unusable. This means that proper education and awareness are crucial in ensuring that compostable dog poop bags are truly environmentally friendly.

Can Dog Poop Bags Go In The Compost?

So, can you compost dog poop bags? The simple answer is yet, but there are some things to consider.

First, only compostable bags can go into the compost. Secondly, ensure the compost won't be used on plants intended for human consumption. This compost needs to be used for flowers or other plants and should not be used on vegetable gardens or the line.

Utilizing an electric composter that is specifically designed for compost pet waste is the perfect solution.