Caring for your pets while safeguarding the planet is a commendable goal, and one you that can enlist your children in life-long sustainable practices. One impactful way to achieve this is by selecting ethically and responsibly produced pet food. A little research can help you understand the environmental challenges associated with pet food production and identify the actionable steps to make sustainable choices.

Pet food production significantly affects the environment through:

• Land use: Producing animal-based proteins for pet food requires vast agricultural land. This demand contributes to deforestation and habitat loss, impacting biodiversity.
• Greenhouse gas emissions: With rising global pet ownership, pet food production contributes to significant environmental burdens, including CO2 emissions, land use and water consumption. Its impact is comparable to that of medium-sized countries like Mozambique or the Philippines, highlighting the importance of considering this factor in sustainability efforts.
• Water consumption: Pet food manufacturers use an estimated 5 to 11 cubic kilometers of fresh water annually. This consumption strains resources, affecting ecosystems and human communities.

Unsustainable Practices in the Pet Food Industry

Several major pet food companies have faced scrutiny for their environmental practices:

These companies have initiated programs to source ingredients more sustainably, aiming to reduce their environmental impact.

Steps Toward Sustainability by Pet Food Companies

In response to environmental concerns, many pet food makers are adopting sustainable practices.

Transparency and Certification

Achieving certifications from organizations like the Pet Sustainability Coalition (PSC) indicates a commitment to eco-consciousness. The PSC evaluates brands based on rigorous criteria aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, such as sustainable sourcing, resource efficiency, waste management and community impact.

Those that earn this certification demonstrate transparency in their supply chains and take measurable steps to minimize their environmental footprint. For example, Open Farm is a PSC-certified business that provides detailed information about its ingredient sourcing and production processes.

PSC-accredited entities often display their certification on packaging or websites, making it easier for you to identify better choices. By supporting these brands, you can feel confident that your purchase aligns with responsible practices and promotes positive change in the pet food industry.

Sustainable Ingredient Sourcing

Companies increasingly recognize the need for responsibly sourced ingredients to reduce their environmental footprint. This includes using proteins from less-impactful sources such as insects or algae, or plant-based alternatives instead of traditional options like beef or lamb, which are associated with high greenhouse gas emissions.

Additionally, some companies now emphasize regenerative agriculture, which focuses on practices like crop rotation, reduced tillage, and cover cropping to restore soil health and sequester carbon. Aside from enhancing biodiversity, it also mitigates the impacts of climate change.

Insect proteins in particular are gaining traction as a viable and eco-friendly alternative. The global volume of insect-based ingredients in pet food is projected to reach 500,000 metric tons by 2030, making it the second-largest market for such proteins.

Black soldier fly larvae, crickets and mealworms are already being utilized in various brands to provide a sustainable, nutritious protein source. These bugs not only have a smaller environmental footprint but are also rich in essential amino acids, fats, and micronutrients like iron and calcium.

Some studies have even explored ways to enhance the nutritional profile of insect proteins by adjusting their diets during cultivation. This adaptability makes bugs a versatile and scalable raw material for pet food, offering a practical solution to the growing demand for sustainable ingredients.

Responsible Packaging

Efforts are underway to develop recyclable or biodegradable packaging to minimize plastic waste. Some businesses have partnered with recycling organizations like TerraCycle to facilitate the recycling of pet food bags. Other examples have implemented recycling programs where customers can return used pet food bags alongside planting trees.

Some pet food brands are also exploring innovative solutions such as Tetra Pak cartons or plant-based packaging materials to further reduce environmental impact. These lower the carbon footprint of packaging and make it easier for consumers to dispose of waste responsibly.

Criteria for Choosing Ethically Produced Pet Food

When selecting sustainable pet food, consider the following factors:

• Ingredient sourcing: Look for organizations that use responsibly sourced ingredients, such as sustainably farmed animal proteins or plant-based alternatives. The PSC’s blueprint can help identify such brands.
• Nutritional needs: Ensure the pet food meets your animal’s dietary requirements. Consult a veterinarian to confirm a sustainable diet provides complete and balanced nutrition for your pet.
• Packaging sustainability: Look for product packaging certifications on your pet food and choose recyclable or biodegradable containers. Some companies have made significant strides in offering better packaging solutions.
• Company transparency: Research brands’ sustainability initiatives and certifications. PSC accreditation is a reliable indicator of a commitment to ethical practices

Actionable Steps To Choose Ethically Produced Pet Food

As a consumer, you have the power to drive change through informed choices:

• Research brands: Investigate pet food companies’ sustainability practices. Look for transparency in sourcing, production methods and environmental initiatives.
• Support certified brands: Purchase from businesses with recognized eco-friendly certifications, such as those accredited by the PSC. Brands like West Paw and Petcurean have achieved PSC accreditation, reflecting a commitment to ethical practices.
• Advocate for change: Encourage your preferred pet food entities to adopt sustainable practices. Consumer demand can influence corporations to prioritize environmental responsibility.
• Recycle packaging: Properly dispose of pet food packaging by following local recycling guidelines. To reduce waste, participate in recycling programs offered by some pet food brands. Check out the Terracycle-powered recycling options provided by Wellness Pet Food, Pet Supplies Plus, Wag N’ Wash, and PetSmart.
• Consult your veterinarian: Before making significant changes to your pet’s diet, discuss options with your veterinarian to ensure nutritional adequacy and address any health concerns.

Make a Difference for Your Pets and the Planet

Choosing ethically produced pet food in recyclable packaging can help you contribute to a more sustainable future for your pets and the planet. Understanding the environmental impact of pet food production and supporting companies committed to sustainable practices empowers you to make informed decisions that benefit all.

About the Author

Jane Marsh is the Editor-in-Chief of Environment.co, a source of sustainable living ideas.