Plogning

Plogning, or plogning, is a fitness activity that combines jogging with picking up litter. Participants collect trash along their running route, often using gloves, bags, and sometimes litter-pickers, and dispose of waste responsibly after the session. The term is a portmanteau of the Swedish phrases plocka upp (to pick up) and jogging, and is widely used in English-language reporting on the practice.

Origins are traced to Sweden in the mid-2010s, where the idea gained visibility through social media and environmental groups. From there, plogging spread to other countries, with running clubs, schools, and community organizations organizing plogging events and challenges. The activity is typically done individually or in groups and can be incorporated into regular training routines.

Typical practice involves planning a running route, bringing bags and gloves, and selecting areas where litter can be collected along the way. Participants may use litter-pickers, especially for smaller or harder-to-reach items. Safety considerations include avoiding hazardous materials, being mindful of traffic, and complying with local waste disposal regulations. Some events coordinate with local councils for proper disposal and recycling of collected items.

Impact and reception are mixed. Proponents highlight the dual benefits of physical exercise and environmental cleanup, as well as increased awareness about litter and recycling. Critics note that while plogging can reduce visible trash in the short term, addressing broader waste problems requires comprehensive policies and infrastructure. Overall, plogging is seen as an accessible, scalable activity that can engage communities and promote environmental mindfulness.