Media Releases and Opportunities

Many of us enjoy a regular stroll in the woods and the chance to take in all that nature has to offer -- beautiful views, lush greenery, local wildlife and time away from the din of urban life.

But many paths and natural settings are being sullied by an unpleasant sight. Dog poop bags can be found on trails and walkways, often left by dog owners who mistakenly believe they are biodegradable.

Tony Walker, a professor in Dalhousie University's School for Resource and Environmental Studies, suggests in a new paper that this litter may occur due to confusion by pet owners, who believe that so called ‘biodegradable’ bags are compostable. In most cases, they are not and add to plastic and microplastic pollution in the environment long after they have been littered.

Dr. Walker, who recently counted more than 50 bags in less than 10 minutes of walking, is available to discuss the phenomenon and what can be done to clear up confusion on how to properly dispose of Fido's waste.

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Media contact:

Alison Auld
Senior Research Reporter
Communications, Marketing and Creative Services
Dalhousie University
Cell: 1-902-220-0491
Email: alison.auld@dal.ca