"Biodegradable" Doesn't Always Mean What You Think

Here's the super sneaky thing brands are doing: a lot of bags are marketed as "eco-friendly" are what's called 'oxo-biodegradable'. This is regular plastic with an additive that helps it break into smaller plastic fragments faster. That's not the same as a bag that is truly turning back into organic material. Real biodegradable and compostable bags, usually made from corn starch or other plant-based materials, break down into harmless organic matter (under the right conditions of course).

What to Actually Look For

The marketing buzzword isn't that reliable. When looking for true biodegradable bags, look for these buzzwords: 

• ASTM D6400 or EN 13432 certification: these are real standards for compostable plastics. A bag with either of these labels has been independently test to break down under industrial composting conditions. They don't just claim it.
• Corn starch, PLA, or other plant-based material: this is what makes a bag genuinely compostable rather than just 'less plastic than typical'.
• Bag thickness: a compostable bag is only useful if it survives the walk home. No one wants to have a bag fall apart within moments of cleaning up the mess. Look for bags that have a double-sealed bottom if you've got a big dog on your hands.
• How it's actually disposed: even the best compostable bag needs either a home composting setup or a municiple composting program to reach it's full potential. Otherwise, that thoughtfully purchased poop bag is headed for the landfill like everything else.

A Few Solid Options Worth Your Time

Ope! No worries, we aren't sponsored by any of these, and we aren't affiliates. We just feel passionate about the enviornment and want to spread these brands that are highly rated and recommended.

• Earth Rated: these poop bags are extra strong, and made from a minimum of 65% recycled content post-consumer. These are a more affordable and popular options.
• Doggy Do Good: Doggy Do Good bags really do good. They are powered by a patented organic additive that helps plastic decompose up to 300x faster. They are developed to decompose in landfills (where most bags end up).
• Give a Shit: These are a personal favorite. These are made from renewable plant-based materials and meet ASTM 06400 standards. Not to mention, 10% of profits feeds rescue animals, and if you spend $35 on an order - you also plant a tree.

Composting in Minnesota

Here it is straight from the horses mouth: Minnesota state law bans yard waste from landfills; residents must comply using one or more of these following options: 

• Haul yard waste to a composting site during their scheduled hours of operation
• Compost yard waste on their property
• Contract with their waste hauler to haul yard waste to compost site

Here is a disposal directory so you can find out where you can haul your composte: Yard & Pet Waste Disposal