What Goes In Must Come Out: How Pet Waste Affects the Environment

A collaboration between Pet Releaf & beyondGREEN biotech, Inc. 

We love our pets like family—and just like any family member, they have needs that impact our environment. One often overlooked issue? Pet waste. While it might seem harmless, pet waste left on the ground can have a surprisingly large environmental footprint. The good news: a few simple shifts in how we care for our pets—like responsible waste cleanup and sustainable product choices—can make a big difference. 

The Problem with Pet Waste 

Each year, dogs in the U.S. alone produce over 10 million tons of waste. When left behind, that waste doesn’t just disappear. It often washes into storm drains and waterways, contributing to water pollution and the spread of harmful bacteria and parasites. In fact, the EPA classifies pet waste as a nonpoint source pollutant, putting it in the same category as oil and toxic chemicals. 

Cleaning up after your pet isn’t just a courtesy—it’s an environmental necessity. But how you clean up matters, too. 

Plastic Bags Aren’t the Solution 

Most pet parents still rely on single-use plastic bags to pick up waste, but these bags can take hundreds of years to break down in landfills. Even some biodegradable options are often misleading, as they may not decompose properly in real-world conditions. 

That’s where companies like beyondGREEN come in. Their environmentally-friendly dog waste bags are made from certified compostable, plant-based materials that break down quickly and safely, whether in an industrial composting facility or your backyard composter (as long as you follow local guidelines). They're a smarter, more sustainable way to clean up after your pet—without adding to the traditional petroleum-based plastic problem. 

What Goes In, Comes Out 

It’s not just about what happens after your pet goes to the bathroom—it starts with what you’re feeding them. Just like humans, a pet’s diet affects their digestion and overall health, and by extension, the quality of their waste. 

Enter Pet Releaf, a leader in plant-based wellness for pets. Their wellness supplements are crafted from USDA-certified organic hemp, supporting your pet’s health in a natural, sustainable way. Better digestion, reduced stress, and a healthier immune system mean less mess, fewer vet visits, and a happier, more balanced pet. 

Plus, Pet Releaf is committed to eco-friendly practices in everything from farming to packaging, aligning perfectly with beyondGREEN’s mission to reduce the pet industry’s impact on the environment. 

A Greener Pet Lifestyle 

Adopting a sustainable approach to pet care doesn’t have to be complicated. Start with these small but impactful steps: 

Our pets can’t make these choices for themselves—but we can. By being mindful of the products we use and how we manage pet waste, we can love our pets and protect the planet at the same time.