person picking up dog poo with a plastic bag

Bag it, bin it! (Our Bright Green Future News February 2026)

person picking up dog poo with a plastic bag

It’s easy to assume dog poo is harmless because it’s “organic” and will simply break down on its own. But leaving it where it falls can actually cause more harm than you might think.

Dog poo is highly acidic and can damage plants and grasses. It can also contain parasites and harmful bacteria. When left on the ground, rain can wash the waste into nearby wetlands and waterways. This pollution can upset the delicate balance of these ecosystems. 

The solution is simple: always pick up dog poo and place it in the general rubbish bin (the red lid bin). It should never go in recycling or green waste bins, where it can cause contamination.

Not sure which bin an item belongs in? Use our search tool to find out which bin to use for over 7000 items.