9th July – Plastic Free July

Every year, the world produces over 400 million tonnes of plastic waste*, with 60% ending up in landfills or the natural environment. More than 8 million tonnes enter our oceans annually, harming wildlife, damaging ecosystems, and threatening the spaces our animals and pets love to explore. Without change, scientists warn that by 2030, there could be more plastic than fish in the ocean.

Plastic Free July is a global movement that inspires millions of people to reduce plastic waste, but have you ever thought about how much plastic comes with pet  and horse ownership?

From food packaging and toys to grooming products and accessories, the choices we make as dog, cat, and horse owners can have a big impact on the planet. This Plastic Free July, we wanted to share some tips for animal lovers everywhere to take small, simple steps toward a plastic-free future.

What’s the problem with plastics?

Plastic pollution affects animals both directly and indirectly. Around 100,000 marine animals die every year from plastic entanglement, and microplastics are now found in water, soil, and even the food chain. For pets and horses who love the outdoors, reducing plastic waste helps protect the very spaces they play, walk, graze and explore.

Some simple ways to get started:

1. Refuse what you don’t need

The first and easiest step in reducing your plastic waste is simply saying no. Refuse unnecessary plastic giveaways, packaging, and freebies, whether it’s promotional pet toys, extra packaging, or disposable grooming wipes.

2. Rethink toys and accessories

Many pet toys are made from low quality plastic that breaks easily. Choose natural rubber, hemp, recycled materials, or organic cotton instead. Longer lasting toys not only reduce waste but are often safer for chewing and play.

3. Upgrade bowls and feeding accessories

Plastic bowls can wear out quickly. Switch to ceramic, stainless steel, or bamboo alternatives, which are more hygienic and durable, with some super stylish designs now available.

4. Go greener with waste

This is a big one, but how we manage it can make a real difference.

For horse owners, get your gardens growing with magical manure! When properly composted, it becomes a nutrient-rich fertiliser for gardens, allotments, and community green spaces. Many stables already have manure management systems, if you keep horses at home, consider creating one and sharing compost with neighbours or local growers.

Dog waste should always be bagged and placed in general waste (not recycling or home compost), as it can carry pathogens harmful to humans and wildlife. While compostable bags exist, the key is ensuring proper disposal in the right waste stream. It’s less about the type of bag and more about where it ends up, certainly not hanging from a tree!

Cat litter choices matter too. Opt for plant-based, biodegradable litters when possible, and dispose of soiled litter safely in line with local council guidance.

Where possible, think about ways to reduce the materials used, and reuse and recycle any packaging.

5. Reuse and refill

Before buying new, think about what you can reuse. Refillable pet treats jars, storage containers, and even washable pee pads or grooming cloths help avoid disposable plastic. Some pet stores now offer bulk buying and refill stations too, which is a great way to reduce packaging and only take what you need, reducing waste and costs too. There are many horse swap and share groups too (Facebook can be a good place to look), with great options for clothing, tack and rugs.

6. Smarter food choices

Choose brands with minimal, recyclable, or compostable packaging and consider buying larger pack sizes to reduce waste and always measure what you need to feed. Horse feed in bulk sacks or reusable tubs is another easy swap.

Small steps, big impact

We know that plastic is sometimes unavoidable, especially when it comes to hygiene, safety, or specialised veterinary care. But every small step adds up. By thinking about our choices, we can reduce waste, protect wildlife, and help create a healthier environment for our pets and the planet.

At Agria, we’re on our own sustainability journey too, from cutting single-use plastics in our office to supporting green innovations in pet care. Because we believe that caring for animals also means caring for the world they live in.

What will your first plastic-free swap be this July?

*https://www.unep.org/resources/report/drowning-plastics-marine-litter-and-plastic-waste-vital-graphics