Phyllis and John Holmes have been strolling 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 during their walks. Phyllis, who used to jog over litter, decided to start picking it up while walking one day, leading John to create a stick with a nail 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 them and donated a box of 100 bags to support their cause. Phyllis began keeping track and has collected 9,153 bags to date.
The town council eventually took notice of their work and decided to place receptacles around the town. This initiative significantly reduced the amount of litter picked up by the couple, from nearly 1,000 bags a year to 300 or 400 bags. Phyllis often informs the town when receptacles are full.
A recent study conducted by Cape Breton University highlighted the long-standing efforts of John and Phyllis Holmes, now known as “plogging.” This term, originating in Sweden in 2016, combines “pick up” (plogga) and “jog” (jogga). Despite many participants in New Brunswick being unfamiliar with the term, they have been engaging in plogging for years under the phrase “litter cleanup.”
Plogging goes beyond simply picking up litter by bridging generational gaps and offering mental health benefits. It has gained popularity in Fredericton, where more people are participating in trail cleanups. Plogging is physically demanding and engages all senses, providing a fulfilling experience for participants.
The global plogging movement, initiated by Erik Ahlström in Stockholm, has spread to over 90 countries. Ahlström emphasizes the health benefits of plogging, including burning more calories than regular running and strengthening arms and shoulders. While some criticize individual efforts like plogging for not addressing the root cause of litter issues, Ahlström believes in taking action while also pressuring producers to reduce single-use materials.
Interested individuals in New Brunswick can start plogging by carrying a bag, going at their own pace, or joining existing groups. Phyllis and John Holmes, along with Ahlström, encourage others to engage in plogging for the benefit of both personal health and the environment.
For more information on plogging groups and events in New Brunswick, visit the Fredericton Trails Coalition website or search for local cleanup groups on Facebook.
