Phyllis and John Holmes have been strolling around Hampton since Thanksgiving weekend in 2005, carrying bags and collecting litter scattered on the streets. From coffee cups to cigarette butts, fast food wrappers, or crushed beer cans, they diligently picked up whatever they came across. Phyllis mentioned that their initiative started during their jogging routine, where they decided to clean up the litter they encountered by hand.
Equipped with a stick and a nail and a pair of kitchen tongs, the couple caught the attention of the locals in Hampton, located about 38 kilometers northeast of Saint John. The manager of a Home Hardware store noticed their efforts and donated a box of 100 bags to support their cause. Phyllis kept track of their progress, noting that they have collected a total of 9,153 bags to date.
Their dedication did not go unnoticed, as the town council eventually took notice and decided to install receptacles around the town at the end of 2008. This led to a significant decrease in litter bag usage, dropping from nearly 1,000 bags a year to 300 or 400. Phyllis confirmed the effectiveness of the town bins, often notifying the town when a receptacle needed attention.
A recent study conducted by Cape Breton University shed light on the couple’s long-standing efforts, coining the term “plogging” to describe their activity. The term originated in Sweden in 2016, combining the Swedish words for pick up, “plogga,” and jog, “jogga.” The study’s lead researcher, Kelsey Harvey, highlighted the positive impact of plogging, emphasizing its intergenerational appeal and mental health benefits.
In Fredericton, Stephen Marr from the Fredericton Trails Coalition observed a growing interest in cleaning up trails and environments, attributing this shift to the community’s desire for a clean and green outdoor space. Marr emphasized that plogging is more physically demanding and engaging than it appears, offering various health benefits beyond a typical jog or walk.
The global plogging movement traces back to Sweden, where it originated over a decade ago with one individual’s initiative. Erik Ahlström, the pioneer of plogging, emphasized the physical and environmental benefits of the activity, noting its calorie-burning potential and positive impact on strength. While acknowledging criticisms of individual efforts diverting attention from systemic issues, Ahlström stressed the importance of taking action and making a difference in the environment.
For those interested in joining plogging initiatives in New Brunswick, starting small with a bag and setting your pace is encouraged. Ahlström emphasized the purpose-driven nature of plogging, urging participants to appreciate their contributions to environmental conservation. To find plogging groups and events in New Brunswick, individuals can visit the Fredericton Trails Coalition website or search for local cleanup groups on social media platforms.