Because Your Pet Deserves Better: Top Sustainable Products That Love Back

As pet owners, we want to do what's best for our furry friends, but it's essential to think about their impact on the environment as well. Traditional pet products can have a serious negative impact on the world, from plastic waste to carbon footprints. Luckily, there are now sustainable pet products available on the market to do the right thing for your pets and the planet.
In this article, we will explore some of the best sustainable pet products that can create a healthier world, and ultimately a better world for your pet.The pet industry is growing, and so is the waste. In fact, it has been estimated that pet-related products generate 300 million pounds of plastic waste per year in the U.S. alone. A large proportion of this ends up in landfills. Moreover, a traditional pet food product generates much more carbon just to produce the food itself and then package, transport, sell, consume, and ultimately dispose of the product.
By using sustainable pet products, you are reducing your pet's environmental pawprint. Sustainable pet products will often be made of biodegradable, recyclable or renewable materials, or use processes to reduce waste and lower carbon emissions.


One of the largest negative environmental impacts we have with our pets comes from the food that they eat in regular amount of time. The majority of pet food is made from animal by-products that are factory-farmed in higher amounts than use of natural. Products that many pet food companies use for animal protein comes from land and water-intensive energy usage and often have Great Wolf Emissions leave a substantial carbon footprint.

- Insect Protein - Several brands are beginning to offer food made from insects which have significantly smaller ecological footprint compared to animal protein, and are far less resource costly to farm along with emit zero greenhouse gas emissions.

- Lab Grown Meat - Another tech innovation for pet food production is lab-grown meat which also mitigates the number of livestock raised, rancher, and the damages to environment.

> Did you know fact: The Pet food industry creates approximately 64 million tons of CO2 emissions yearly on a global scale which equates to more total emissions than countries full like Mozambique or the whole the Philippines.

Plastic waste bags can take up nearly 1,000 years to decompose with pet owners using millions upon millions before long along with compostable and biodegradable bags which are made from plant-based packaging from cornstarch, bamboo, etc. and significantly reduce the plastic pollution we create.
> Pro Tip: When searching for waste bags, make sure they show that certified by the composter so that they fully degrade.

When it comes to grooming, many standard pet shampoos and conditioners are unfortunately made with harsh chemicals that can damage your pet and the environment. Switching to cruelty-free, natural grooming products that do not contain parabens, sulfates, or fragrances can decrease your pet's exposure to harsh products and keep harmful runoff from going into ecosystems.

4-Legger and Earthbath sell grooming products recognized as USDA-certified organic, making them the safest products for both your pet and the planet!


Traditional pet toys are manufactured from a variety of plastics, many of which never degrade, potentially polluting landfills indefinitely. A fantastic alternative is pet toys made from recycled plastic bottles, hemp, or natural rubber. They are durable to use and lessen the demand for new raw materials.

Fun Fact: West Paw’s IntelliLoft® fiberfill recycled from plastic bottles has turned over 16 million bottles into pet products.
You may be looking for a durable bed for your pet; bedding made from recycled cotton and natural fibers will allow for airflow and comfort for your pet, along with being better for the environment.


When it comes to litter, look for biodegradable litters made from recycled paper, corn or wood chips. These items are way more environmentally friendly than clay-based litter. Clay based litters contain harmful chemicals, and they create by-products from mining.

Many pet accessories, such as collars, harnesses and leashes, are made from synthetic, non-biodegradable materials. Instead of buying those items, find eco-friendly accessories made from recycled PET fabric, bamboo and hemp. These materials are sustainable, durable, and better for your pet's health.

The market for eco-friendly pet products continues to grow. The 2022 Pet Sustainability Coalition survey found that 54% of pet owners would pay more for sustainable pet food, while one-third of consumer focus on the need for eco-conscious items for their pets. As interest around this topic continues to grow, the pet industry will also provide more solutions for green products.

> Did you know? The pet food industry has an ecological footprint greater than the entire country of Mozambique or the Philippines, contributing more than 64 million tons of CO₂ each year.

More and more brands are releasing pet products that are eco-friendly. Here are a few you can see:
The Kind Pet: An awesome shop for eco-friendly pet products that focus on sustainable sourcing.
EarthHero: Lots of eco-friendly pet supplies, biodegradable toys, grooming products, the whole menu.
West Paw: Known for their durable, exacting, recycled material toys and sustainable pet gear.
The Green Pet Shop: A whole shop for eco-friendly pet supplies.
Petique, Inc.: Eco-friendly pet staples including beds and travel goods.
Being an eco-friendly pet owner does not have to be a difficult task. More companies are broadening their sustainable pet products, and it is easier than ever to buy sustainable. By making small choices about food, toys, and more, you will find personal ways to minimize waste, make a smaller carbon footprint, and contribute to the health of the planet for years to come.

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Frequently Asked Question(FAQs)

What is the most environmental-friendly pet?
Adopting smaller, low-maintenance pets like fish or rabbits tends to have a lower environmental impact.How can I be a sustainable pet owner?
Opt for eco-friendly pet products, reduce waste, and choose sustainable pet foods to minimize your pet’s environmental footprint.What is the most sustainable dog food?
Insect-based dog food and lab-grown meat options are among the most sustainable choices, as they have a lower environmental impact.