Mars Expands Better Cities for Pets Program: A Greener Future for Urban Pets and Their Owners
Mars, Inc. is on a mission to transform urban living for pet owners with the expansion of its Better Cities for Pets initiative. This program is designed to meet the mounting demands of urban pet owners by fostering new global partnerships and investing in vital infrastructure—ensuring better access to green spaces and pet-friendly travel destinations.
The Urgent Need for Green Spaces
As pet populations in urban areas are projected to soar by nearly 10% by 2030, Mars is stepping up with an impressive investment of over $1 million. The initiative’s ambitious goal is to positively impact the lives of 10 million people and pets by the decade’s end.
A New Alliance with C40 Cities
One of the centerpiece developments of this expansion is a vital partnership with C40 Cities, a renowned global network of mayors dedicated to driving climate action. This collaboration focuses on the launch of the Urban Nature Playbook for People, Pets, and the Planet. This groundbreaking resource equips city leaders with innovative strategies to seamlessly integrate pet-friendly and climate-resilient green infrastructure, like leafy sidewalks and public parks, into urban planning processes.
Cities like London, Los Angeles, São Paulo, Bengaluru, and Bangkok are at the forefront, implementing the playbook’s visionary principles.
Mark Watts, the executive director of C40 Cities, emphasizes the necessity of such initiatives: “Green space in cities is vital to ensuring people’s well-being. This partnership with Mars will accelerate support to cities to build resilience and improve access to green space for people and their pets.”
Voices from Leadership
Sadiq Khan, the mayor of London and co-chair of C40 Cities, echoes this sentiment: “Everyone should be able to enjoy safe, green spaces—especially with our pets. London is proud to be one of Europe’s most pet-friendly cities.”
A Pawsitive Partnership with Tripadvisor
Mars is also deepening its relationship with Tripadvisor, expanding a successful U.S. pilot program that promotes pet-friendly businesses to global markets, including the UK, Italy, and Australia. In collaboration with brands like Cesar and My Dog, the initiative has added more than 5,000 new pet-friendly destinations to Tripadvisor over the past year.
Ikdeep Singh, the global president of Mars Pet Nutrition, reinforces this commitment: “With the urban pet population set to rise by almost 10% by 2030, Mars is more committed than ever to improving city living for millions of pets and pet parents around the world.”
Enhancing Urban Life for Pets and Owners
Since its inception in 2017, the Better Cities for Pets initiative has focused on elevating the quality of urban life for pet owners. Its multifaceted approach includes research, public policy advocacy, and direct investment in city infrastructure, making a tangible difference in communities all over the world.
A Family-Owned Legacy
With a robust market presence as a $50 billion+ family-owned business, Mars Petcare is not just a leader in pet care; it’s a powerhouse brand that enriches the lives of pets everywhere. The company’s cherished products, including Royal Canin, Pedigree, and Whiskas, are designed to delight both pets and their owners, solidifying Mars’s commitment to animal welfare.
Conclusion: A Vision for the Future
Mars, Inc. is not merely investing in green spaces; it’s actively reshaping urban landscapes for the betterment of pets and their owners around the globe. Through smart collaborations and a focus on innovation, the Better Cities for Pets initiative is paving the way for a more harmonious coexistence between urban living and pet care. As cities evolve, so too will the ways in which we embrace our furry companions—thankfully, companies like Mars are leading the charge toward a greener, more pet-friendly future.
