Phyllis and John Holmes have been strolling the streets of Hampton since the Thanksgiving weekend of 2005, carrying bags and collecting litter along the way. They would pick up various items like coffee cups, cigarette butts, fast food wrappers, and crushed beer cans that they encountered during their walks. Phyllis, recalling their jogging days, decided to start picking up litter as they walked, leading John to create a tool with a nail at the end and Phyllis to use kitchen tongs for this purpose.
Their efforts quickly gained attention in Hampton, located about 38 kilometers northeast of Saint John. The manager of a local Home Hardware store noticed their dedication and generously donated a box of 100 bags to support their cause. Phyllis diligently kept track of the number of bags they collected, noting that they had amassed an impressive total of 9,153 bags.
Following their inspiring initiative, the town council took notice and sought their input on how to contribute. Phyllis suggested placing receptacles around the town, leading to a significant decrease in litter bag use from nearly 1,000 bags per year to 300 or 400. She even mentioned having to alert the town when certain bins were overflowing, indicating their effectiveness.
A recent study conducted by Cape Breton University, encompassing Ontario, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia, has identified the activity that the Holmes couple has been quietly undertaking for years as “plogging.” Coined in Sweden in 2016 by Erik Ahlström, the term is a combination of the Swedish words for pick up, “plogga,” and jog, “jogga.” Kelsey Harvey, the lead researcher, highlighted the community’s positive response to plogging, emphasizing its cross-generational appeal and mental health benefits.
In Fredericton, Stephen Marr from the Fredericton Trails Coalition observed a growing interest in plogging, with more individuals participating in trail cleanups and adopting a proactive approach to keeping their environment clean. Marr emphasized the physical demands and sensory engagement involved in plogging, noting its multifaceted benefits beyond regular exercise.
Originating in Stockholm around a decade ago, plogging has evolved into a global movement, thanks to Ahlström’s initiative. He emphasized the physical benefits of plogging, highlighting its calorie-burning potential and toning effects on the body. While acknowledging the need for systemic change to address the root causes of littering, Ahlström emphasized the power of individual actions in making a difference.
For those interested in trying plogging in New Brunswick, starting small with a bag and setting a comfortable pace is recommended. Ahlström encouraged participants to reflect on their impact and appreciate the positive change they contribute to the environment. To join plogging groups or events in New Brunswick, individuals can visit the Fredericton Trails Coalition website or search for local cleanup groups on social media platforms.