The Scoop on Paper or Plastic

When it comes to scooping dog poop, is paper any better than a plastic bag?

While paper can be recycled, a plastic bag takes 1,000 years to decompose in landfills, right?

Surprisingly, the EPA says paper bags are not better for the environment than plastic bags. In fact, plastic requires much less energy — and greenhouse emissions — to manufacture, ship and recycle. They generate less air and water pollution. And they take up much less space in landfills.

So, what's the answer? NEITHER! The EPA says to reuse your plastic bag; a sturdy, reusable bag needs only be used 11 times to have a lower environmental impact than using 11 disposable plastic bags. In New York City alone, one less grocery bag per person per year would reduce waste by five million pounds and save $250,000 in disposal costs.

But reusable plastic can get sticky for eco-friendly-minded pet owners.

Instead, look into purchasing biodegradeable bags, which are made from corn, not polyethylene.

One promising, but perhaps more expensive solution is the Skooperbox. Made from 100% recycled paper, you pop open the box, scoop up the poop, close the box and toos, or let your dog carry the goods home.

The most eco-friendly solution: Try wrapping it up in a nearby leaf!