Phyllis and John Holmes have been strolling through the streets of Hampton since Thanksgiving weekend in 2005, carrying bags and collecting litter. They pick up various items like coffee cups, cigarette butts, fast food wrappers, and crushed beer cans every day. Phyllis shared that they started this habit when they noticed litter while jogging and decided to proactively clean up the streets.
Equipped with a stick with a nail at the end and a pair of kitchen tongs, the couple’s efforts caught the attention of the community. The local Home Hardware manager donated 100 bags after seeing them in action. Phyllis diligently counted each bag they filled, and they have now collected 9,153 bags.
Their initiative prompted the town council to install more receptacles around Hampton, significantly reducing the amount of litter. A recent study from Cape Breton University labeled their activity as “plogging,” a term originating from Sweden in 2016. Kelsey Harvey, the lead researcher of the study, highlighted the positive impact of plogging on mental health and community engagement.
In Fredericton, Stephen Marr of the Fredericton Trails Coalition noted an increase in trail cleanups and community involvement. Plogging, which involves picking up litter while jogging or walking, has gained popularity globally since its inception in Stockholm a decade ago. Erik Ahlström, the pioneer of plogging, emphasized the physical and environmental benefits of this practice.
Despite criticisms that individual actions like plogging may not address the root causes of littering, proponents stress the importance of taking immediate action. Interested individuals in New Brunswick can start plogging by simply bringing a bag and joining local cleanup groups. Ahlström encouraged people to reflect on their contributions to environmental preservation and run with a purpose for the planet.
For those looking to engage in plogging activities in New Brunswick, more information can be found on the Fredericton Trails Coalition website or by searching for local cleanup groups on social media platforms.
