Finnegan Wells
PUPCYCLED PET LEASH
Sponsored By:
A pet leash made from upcycled outdoor gear with a unique waste solution.
The Pupcycled Pet Leash was designed in the EPOP Studio. Annually, EPOP aims to develop innovative, user-centric, and environmentally conscious concepts and turn them into feasible, ready-to-launch, and manufacturable products. This is accomplished by combining collaborative product development principles and sustainable design to advance our knowledge of the product design process while creating a tangible product for a popular local market.
Learn more at cuboulderepop.com
Develop a pet-focused product that meets the needs of both pets and their owners while addressing key concerns identified by conducting market and user-centered research. The final design should align with EPOP’s brand of producing thoughtful, sustainable products tailored for real-world users and capable of small-scale production for the local holiday market.
The Brief.
Preliminary User Research
And Market Opportunity Identification.
Preliminary interviews revealed a widespread frustration with the lack of convenient and hygienic waste solutions for disposing of used pet poop bags during walks.
Waste Managment
Style
Many pet owners are dissatisfied with the current style options for leashes, describing them as either overly basic and utilitarian or excessively flashy and gimmicky.
Cleanability
Early user feedback pointed to cleanability as a common pain point, with many expressing frustration over how easily leashes collect dirt and odors.
Waste Diversion
Market research identified growing concern over the massive waste generated by pet toys and accessories, many of which are made from low-quality, non-recyclable materials and quickly end up in landfills.
Durability
Further analysis underscored the critical importance of durability in pet products—not only to ensure the safety of both pets and owners during use, but also to minimize the risk of product failure that could lead to injuries or liability concerns for manufacturers. There is a clear demand for robust, high-quality materials and construction that can withstand daily wear, strong pulling forces, and varying environmental conditions without compromising performance or trust.
Refined Design
(Post Prototype & Test Phase)
Production
Crafted from upcycled tents and climbing gear, this leash not only boasts durability and style but also promotes sustainability. It provides a convenient and stylish solution for carrying used waste bags during walks with your furry friend with a custom-milled used poop bag holder. The Pupcycled Leash is designed to add a touch of conscientious living to you and your pet's daily routine.
Innovatively designed poop bag holder, meticulously machined from durable Delrin (acetal), brings both functionality and sustainability to the leash. Crafted with precision and an eco-conscious mindset, this functional addition simplifies waste management and champions sustainability in every step.