Scot-Petshop Oxo Biodegradable Dog Poop Bags x 2000

As I'm still using up my previous poo bags, I haven't got round to seeing just how good these are, though with a new dog walking business (Chocolate Tortoise) I'm sure I'll get round to testing them out soon! However, as others have said - they feel strong, and big, enough.

Prior to ordering these I contacted the manufacturer (Scot-Petshop) regarding their biodegradable claims. To their great credit, after a bit of a delay, they got back to me with a detailed response, which I reproduce below for anyone else who may be interested or concerned about the 'level' of biodegradability (or, rather, epi-degradability) of these bags. All in all, a satisfactory answer for me, and kudos to the manufacturer for bothering to reply to my concerns! They reconfirmed the 24-36 month breakdown statement in the personal cover note that accompanied this:

<response from Scot-Petshop>
Degradability and Biodegradability Epi=degradable bags
EPI's TDPA(tm) provides a means for rendering conventional plastics degradable, and ultimately biodegradable, within a reasonable and controlled time-frame. TDPA(tm) is added in small quantities (typically 2-3%) to the conventional plastic during the manufacturing process and allows totally degraded plastic products to biodegrade within 24 - 36 months, when disposed of in an appropriate environment.

For plastics, degradability refers to change in chemical structure and loss in mechanical properties caused by a specific environment, resulting in the plastic breaking down into small fragments. Biodegradability results from the actions of naturally occurring micro-organisms such as bacteria, fungi and algae and results in the plastic fragments being consumed. Conventional plastic materials are extremely resistant to degradation and biodegradation and persist in the environment for decades, or even centuries.

How Does TDPA(tm) Work?
TDPA(tm) works by way of the oxo-biodegradation process, which occurs in two stages. In the first stage, TDPA(tm) accelerates the plastic degradation process by several orders of magnitude, whereby the long polymer molecules are reduced to shorter and shorter lengths and undergo oxidation (oxygen groups attach themselves to the polymer molecules). This process is triggered by heat (elevated temperatures found in landfills or composting), UV light (a component of sunlight) and mechanical stress (e.g. wind or compaction in a landfill). Oxidation causes the molecules to become hydrophilic (water- attracting) and small enough to be ingestible by micro-organisms, setting the stage for biodegradation to begin.

In the second stage, biodegradation occurs in the presence of moisture and micro-organisms typically found in the environment. The plastic material is completely broken down into the residual products of the biodegradation process. As micro-organisms consume the degraded plastic, carbon dioxide, water, and biomass are produced and returned to nature by way of the biocycle.
<end of response>

These are great - they feel stronger than most poo bags, so you don't feel in danger of the bag splitting and a nasty accident occurring! They tie easily, the handles don't break, and the fact that they're degradable means guilt-free use. Excellent.

I've just come on here to order another 1000, the last lot running out after 17 months. Lets face it, your dogs aren't going to stop going for a poo so buying a job lot ('scuse the pun...) will only save you money. These were the cheapest biodegradable bags I could find (and 100% biodegradable, not 'sort of' biodegradable like a lot of others, and they're big and strong enough to cope with the most impressive dumps any dog can be proud of. The big handles mean easing tying as well. And because of their size and strength, we also use them as freezer and sandwich begs etc etc minimising our house plastics!
The only problem is is that they come in packs of about 50-100 which is quite a lot, I find a shoe box store them really well. And obviously they're loose and fairly big so you will begin to find green bags invading most elements of your life! However, looking at the paltry little sandwich bags you get in most bags in containers which I wouldn't trust not having a horrific accident with I'm more than happy and think you should all get them!