About
Upcycling involves processing old materials into new products, or the re-use of a product with crippled functionality for alternative purposes, to prevent waste of potentially useful materials, reduce the consumption of fresh raw materials, reduce energy usage, reduce air pollution (from incineration) and water pollution (from landfilling) by reducing the need for “conventional” waste disposal, and lower greenhouse gas emissions as compared to virgin production, with the intent of creating a product of higher quality design and artistic value.
-Wikipedia
The Issues:
Animals shelters are forced to make life and death decisions every day. Animals are euthanized because they cannot be placed in homes and because animal shelters do not have the funds to provide food and care for a constant influx of strays and unwanted pets.
We live in a world of consumption. Disposal of trash is a growing concern in a “shrinking” world. Rock climbers, and climbing gyms have to dispose of climbing ropes once they are no longer safe to hold falls.
The Idea:
After considering the two issues, we propose to create dog toys out of retired climbing ropes and donate a portion of our sales to local animal shelters (or other causes that seek to support animal welfare). Our purpose will seek to address the two issues of supporting animal welfare as well as creating useful products out of old climbing ropes which would become trash.
About Me:
My name is Matthew Swartz, originally from Westport, CT, now living in Nederland CO. I have been a rock and ice climber for the past 6 years. I have an 11-month-old German Shepherd/Australian Shepherd named Dewbie. I have 5 years of experience leading climbing, backpacking, and biking outings for young adults. I am a photographer, shooting mostly nature and action sports as well as doing commercial and private projects. I have worked with the US Forest Service as an Interpretive Ranger on Mt.Evans in the Clear Creek Ranger District, as an outdoor educator teaching rock/ice climbing and leading groups of young adults on backpacking/bicycle tours. I believe in loving and learning in our outdoor environment. I also believe in promoting the well-being and fair treatment of all animals.
This website – Our site will aim to inform the general public about anything pet-related. Events, activities, products, services, etc. We will post news regarding Dirtbag Dog Toys; what we’re doing, products we’re offering, causes we’re supporting. Please check back frequently as we will be adding new content regularly.
Partners – Dirtbag Dog Toys is a regional partner of Sterling Rope. By partnering with Sterling we are able to more easily collect retired ropes, cutting down on the amount of rope shipped back to the East coast, cutting the carbon footprint of Sterling’s rope recycling program.
Have a retired climbing rope that you would like to donate to the cause? All you have to do is send it to us. If you can wash it first, it makes my job a lot easier. Please send all donations to:
Dirtbag Dog Toys
P.O. Box 312
Nederland, CO
80466
-DDT