Phyllis and John Holmes walk the streets of Hampton with bags in hand. Since Thanksgiving weekend 2005, the couple has picked up coffee cups, cigarette butts, and fast food wrappers. They started this habit long before the world had a name for it. Today, researchers call it plogging, and it is transforming trails across New Brunswick.

According to a recent report from CBC News, the Holmes couple has collected 9,153 bags of litter. Their efforts prompted the Hampton town council to install public garbage receptacles in 2008. This simple infrastructure change dropped the couple’s annual litter bag count from nearly 1,000 to around 300.

The Science Behind Plogging

A recent study from Cape Breton University highlights the impact of this activity. Kelsey Harvey, an assistant professor and lead researcher, notes that many Atlantic Canadians practice plogging without knowing the term. They simply call it a litter cleanup.

Harvey says plogging bridges generational divides. “It dispels the myth that it is a young versus old issue. People of all ages care,” she told CBC.

The research also points to significant mental health benefits. Participants report a strong sense of purpose when they transform a littered path into a clean natural space.

A Global Movement with Local Impact

Erik Ahlström coined the term plogging in Sweden in 2016. He blended the Swedish words for pick up and jog. What began as his solo morning routine now spans more than 90 countries.

Ahlström highlights the physical advantages of the activity. “Plogging burns more calories than normal running,” he said. “You get strong arms, you get strong shoulders.”

Stephen Marr of the Fredericton Trails Coalition sees this trend growing locally. The coalition partners with the City of Fredericton on trail cleanups and runs an adopt a trail program. Marr notes that plogging engages all your senses. The stretching, bending, and visual focus make it a more complex and beneficial workout than a standard walk or jog.

How You Can Start

You do not need special equipment to start plogging. Bring a bag on your next walk and go at your own pace. You can also join existing local cleanup groups through organizations like the Fredericton Trails Coalition or community Facebook pages.

As Ahlström advises, “Look at what you have already done. See what good stuff you have created. That is the thing about plogging. You run with purpose. Running is for you. Plogging is for Mother Earth.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What is plogging?

Plogging is the act of picking up litter while jogging or walking. The term blends the Swedish words for pick up and jog.

Where did plogging originate?

Erik Ahlström started the plogging movement in Sweden in 2016. It has since spread to over 90 countries.

What are the benefits of plogging?

Plogging offers both physical and mental health benefits. It burns more calories than standard running because it involves bending and stretching. It also provides a sense of purpose and improves mental well being by helping clean up nature.

How can I start plogging in New Brunswick?

You can start by bringing a garbage bag on your daily walk or run. You can also connect with local groups like the Fredericton Trails Coalition to participate in organized community cleanups.