The Shift Towards Sustainability is Shaping The Pet Industry
Sustainability is impacting a broad spectrum of industries. But the pet industry, in particular, is witnessing a significant shift as pet lovers increase their demand for more environmentally friendly and socially responsible products and brands. This could also be linked to the fact that pet lovers are more likely to care for animals and nature and this can be seen through their shopping behavior and preferences.
The pet care industry is now forced to evolve and prioritize not just their furry friends, but the planet as a whole. Everything is going through a transformation, from the way materials are produced to the way that materials are sourced, or the way that products are packaged. In this article we will talk about how sustainability is shaping the pet industry.
The Demand for Sustainable and Organic Pet Food
One of the primary areas that is shifting towards sustainability is pet food production. Concerns about the environmental impact of traditional pet food ingredients have led to a rise in plant-based and alternative protein options. These alternatives not only reduce the carbon footprint associated with pet food production but also cater to pets with dietary restrictions. Additionally, sustainable pet food brands are focusing on sourcing ingredients responsibly, using locally sourced materials and organic methods.
The demand for organic pet food is also growing. In fact, according to a recent report by ReportLinker, The Global Organic Pet Food Market alone is expected to reach $24.4 billion by 2028. So what could be driving this increase in consumer demand?
One catalyst that is driving this change is the rise in consumers who are increasingly health conscious, combined with the rise in pet ownership around the world and the growing humanization of pets. Consumers who buy these organic products end up buying products for their pets that are also organic and this leads to a huge shift in their buying habits.
Remember that a sustainable pet product is not necessarily organic. Also, if a pet product is organic then that does not mean it is sustainable. But by offering customers products that are both sustainable and organic, you can create more desire for your products.
The Shift Towards Eco-Friendly Pet Products, Packaging & Distribution
Pet owners are increasingly shifting towards products that are made from sustainable materials and have minimal environmental impact. In response to this shift, brands are also designing more products using recycled materials, natural fibers, etc. Biodegradable waste bags and compostable litter are also becoming more popular as pet owners seek ways to reduce their ecological footprint while caring for their pets.
But sustainability is not just about the products. Consumers also demand sustainable packaging and distribution methods. In fact, according to a 2021 NielsenIQ study, 53% of consumers believe that companies need to reduce the amount of plastic in packaging in order to be considered sustainable. Many pet brands are now rethinking their packaging to minimize waste and utilize recyclable or biodegradable materials. Companies are even exploring more efficient transportation and distribution strategies to reduce the harmful emissions that are associated with transporting pet products across various distribution channels.
Wildlife Protection, Education and Advocacy
Sustainability in the pet industry isn’t just about the products; it’s also about supporting conservation efforts and protecting wildlife. More pet brands are now partnering with conservation organizations or donating a portion of their profits to wildlife protection initiatives. One example is Mars Petcare, the parent company of Pedigree, which partnered with The World Wildlife Fund(WWF) in around 2020 to advocate for sustainability in the pet care industry. They also support many other conservation projects and they are widely known for their commitment to sustainability.
Pet care brands are also recognizing the need to educate pet owners about environmentally friendly pet care practices. This includes providing information on sustainable pet diets and the importance of reducing waste. By empowering pet owners with knowledge and resources, these pet care brands are able to connect with consumers at a much deeper level.
Conclusion
From sustainable pet food options to eco-friendly products and packaging, companies are responding to consumer demand for more environmentally conscious pet care solutions. Sustainability is no longer a niche concept or side topic, it is now a driving force that is reshaping the pet industry and other industries as well. Pet product manufacturers and retailers are now looking to seize this opportunity by exploring alternatives that are both sustainable and organic to meet the needs of today’s consumers. By embracing sustainability and meeting the needs of these growing segments, brands can gain a competitive advantage and position their products as good for both the pets’ health and the health of the planet.
We hope you found this article informative. We will also be at the 2024 Global Pet Expo in Orlando, FL. We hope you will be there to join us. Feel free to give us a call or text us at 908-568-7454.
SOURCES
Eco-friendly Practices Boost the Pet Industry
https://worldpetassociation.com/how-sustainability-is-transforming-the-pet-industry/
https://www.forbes.com/sites/dennismitzner/2023/08/08/pet-care-companies-bank-on-sustainability-as-consumer-trends-shift/?sh=1ac0bb687c9b
https://digitalmag.petproductnews.com/petproductnews/library/item/february_2024/4167318/
https://www.reportlinker.com/p06435112/Global-Organic-Pet-Food-Market-Size-Share-Industry-Trends-Analysis-Report-By-Food-Type-By-Pet-Type-By-Distribution-Channel-By-Regional-Outlook-and-Forecast.html?utm_source=GNW
