Spring isn’t here yet, but we’re already thinking about all the equipment we will need for our forest trips in the upcoming seasons. As you think about what you need, a question comes to your mind: what footprint do you leave in nature during your expeditions? Then you wonder how to respect the environment while enjoying your trip.
Lucky you! We have put together a list of things to keep in mind while going trekking, for more peaceful and ethical hikes.
1. Prepare and plan
Nothing is better than being organized in order to live a magic moment in the forest. This organization will allow you to not only have everything in hand and peace of mind, but also to respect your environment. Take time to research the rules and particularities of the place you’re visiting. Also, be prepared for bad weather and possible emergencies. We never know when you could need a good raincoat or emergency lights that won’t leave a trace of your passage after your departure.
2. Choose durable areas
Opt for existing trails, rock slabs, gravel, dry grass or already trampled snow if you’re doing it in winter. Thus, you will not alter other spaces. If you plan to camp on site, set up your tent in a place where vegetation is absent and especially more than 70 meters away from lakes and rivers to protect the banks.
Respecting nature and using durable surfaces also means choosing footwear suitable for the conditions you will encounter and that will not damage the trails you walk on.
3. Manage waste properly
The biggest ecological impact a hiker can have is the waste he can leave on his way. It is therefore of utmost importance to manage these and leave none in the forest.
- Bring back all the things you take with you while hiking and leave nothing on your way. You’ll throw out what you need to throw away and recycle what you can when you’re back home or if you cross containers for this purpose on your way.
- Leave intact what you find in the forest. Maybe you would have liked to take this small piece of tree home? It’s better to leave it there and avoid damaging the ecosystem.
- Minimize the impact of fires. You never know when one of these can become out of control and cause a lot of damage. Make sure you are dressed appropriately for the temperature you will experiment.
4. Opt for ethical products
If you want to respect nature and make ethical trips in the forest, your choice of materials also matters. Choose durable products that you can use for many years instead of discarding them after a single use and increase your planetary waste. Sustainability means quality, but also buying items made from recycled materials. By carefully choosing brands that care about nature, you give a second life to many materials and show your respect for the earth.
