As an avid jogger, my daily runs have become cherished ‘me’ time. Time to unwind, think, dream, and get some much-needed exercise, especially during all the lockdown time we’ve had.
My run is hallowed time on hallowed ground – but lately that ground has been glaring back at me. Have you ever noticed how much trash gets discarded on our roadways, trails, beaches? It’s shocking to say the least.
As my runs have been constantly distracted by this problem, I’ve parleyed my jogging into cleaning missions – picking up trash along the way! So…let me introduce you to PLOGGING, the simple act of picking up trash while you jog! Easy right? You feel good and do good – every piece of trash collected is one more item that won’t end up in our oceans and waterways. Now this is a health craze I can get behind!
Plogging originated in Sweden and has been increasing in popularity around the globe for the past several years. The word ‘plogging’ comes from the term plocka upp (‘pick up’ in Swedish) + jogging.
The scary truth is that less than 10% of all plastic is ever recycled, and studies show that the US generates the largest amount of plastic waste of any country in the world – not a proud fact.
While we need to slow our consumption of plastic (swapping plastic bottles for Boxed Water is a good place to start), Plogging is a great way for one person to make a big impact in your community, all while you work out. And best of all? It’s easy. You just need some gloves and bag, that’s it, just run (or walk) and grab as you go.
Take it from our friend Shae Burns of Shae Necessities. Over the last few years, she’s become a plalking expert and advocate on how easy the process is.
September is Coastal Clean Up Month, and Boxed Water will be hosting several beach cleanups from coast to coast. We hope you come visit us if you’re in Santa Monica, CA or Montauk, NY.
Don’t live on a coast? No problem. Grab a bag and you can plog solo or grab some friends (socially distanced of course). This is the perfect time to get started on your own plogging journey.
