World Sustainability Day 2024: A Call to Action for Pet Owners
Why Sustainability Matters for Pet Owners
In 2024, our planet is home to an estimated 8.2 billion humans and 1.3 billion pets, including 900 million dogs and over 350 million cats. These figures don't even account for homeless, stray, or abandoned pets, making the true number even higher. In the aftermath of COVID-19, the United States alone accounted for over 200 million family pets.
As of 2024, 66% of U.S. households (86.9 million homes) own a pet, driving a dramatic rise in global meat consumption. This trend is particularly evident in developing countries where disposable incomes are increasing. By 2050, the global population is expected to surpass 9 billion, with over 2 billion pets. This surge will drive a staggering 110% increase in demand for agricultural production, requiring the clearing of an additional 1,482 million acres—twice the area of India—just for agriculture.
Food for Thought:
Over 66% of U.S. households have pets, and most feed them a diet of animal protein. Yet, this figure is rarely included when calculating the environmental impact of dietary choices. If American pets formed their own country, they would rank among the top six in global meat consumption.
Considering that the majority of pet treats on the market contain some form of processed animal protein (PAP)—likely animal by-products—shouldn't we include our carnivorous pets in the environmental calculation of our food choices?
Studies from The National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) suggest that dogs and cats consume roughly 19% of the dietary energy that humans do. They produce about 30% of the feces that humans do, and through their diet, they account for about 25–30% of the environmental impacts from animal production, including the use of land, water, fossil fuels, phosphates, and biocides.
NCBI also estimates that the average full-sized dog requires around 2-3 kg (4.5-7 lbs.) of food per week. Dog and cat consumption of animal-based products is believed to be responsible for the release of up to 64 million tons of methane and nitrous oxide—two powerful greenhouse gasses.
Reflecting on Our Pets' Environmental Impact
With World Sustainability Day approaching, now is the perfect time to reflect on our furry family members' environmental impact. While our pets bring immense joy and companionship into our lives, they also leave a carbon pawprint. Fortunately, there are numerous eco-friendly practices that pet owners can adopt to reduce their environmental impact, all while ensuring their pets live happy, healthy lives.
1. Make Every Day World Sustainability Day
Every small action counts when it comes to protecting our planet. By making conscious choices in pet care—whether it’s the products you buy, the food you choose, or how you manage waste—you’re contributing to a larger global effort. Share these tips with fellow pet owners to make every day a step toward a more sustainable world.
2. Choose Sustainable Pet Products: Eco-Friendly Essentials
Opt for pet products made from eco-friendly or materials such as jut fiber, hemp, coffee tree wood or recycled materials. These fun toys from Pets of The Earth have many options, from leads, to collars, bones to rope toys which are all kinder to the environment. Also try and prioritize products which have minimal packaging.https://www.petsoftheearth.com/
3. Sustainable Pet Food: Nourishing Pets, Protecting the Planet
When selecting pet food, look for brands that prioritize sustainability and ethical sourcing. Consider insect-based treats, like Pup Pup Foods, which are not only nutritious but also have a lower environmental impact compared to traditional protein sources. Choose foods made with locally sourced ingredients to reduce the carbon footprint, and opt for eco-friendly packaging or bulk options to minimize waste. For treats why noy try dried jerky or deer antlers as chews. Minimal processing and zero packaging.
4. Homemade Treats: Healthier for Pets and the Planet
Skip store-bought treats and meals packed in single-use plastic and opt for homemade alternatives. Homemade treats are healthier for your dog, and you can control the ingredients and reduce packaging waste. This summer why not try our blueberry, chia and honey FroYo, and store them in reusable freezer bags or ice cube trays. Always consult your veterinarian to ensure new recipes meet your dog’s dietary needs. https://www.puppupfoods.com/recipes
5. The Green Poop Initiative
Managing pet poop can be a challenge, but there are some greener solutions. Try Switching to compostable waste bags, reducing the environmental impact of your pup’s poops. They Are now readily available from any pet store and are relatively cheap. If you have a small pooch why not try tearing the bag into two or swap the bag for some tissue or toilet roll.
6. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: The Three Rs of Responsible Pet Care
Reducing waste should be a priority in pet care. Invest in durable, high-quality pet products that last longer and can withstand wear and tear. Embrace the three Rs: Reduce by buying only what you need. When the Pup gets bored of a toy why not swap it with a friend's collection and vice versa. Reuse by repurposing old items (like turning an old blanket into a pet bed) or instead of buying fancy chew holders, use your existing Kong as this works just as well for no cost. Remember to recycle any packaging or containers that come with your pet supplies. Look out for small businesses at local markets that upcycle reusable materials and help support local small businesses.
As pet owners, we have a responsibility to lessen the environmental impact of our four-legged friends. By embracing eco-friendly practices, we can contribute to a healthier planet, not just on October 26th for World Sustainability Day, but every day. Let’s take meaningful steps to ensure our pets’ pawprints are as green as possible.
https://www.forbes.com/advisor/pet-insurance/pet-ownership-statistics/
https://www.wri.org/blog/2018/12/how-sustainably-feed-10-billion-people-2050-21-charts
https://science.sciencemag.org/content/360/6392/987