“Take nothing but pictures … leave nothing but footprints.”
I saw these words on a trail sign while hiking many years ago and well remember them. No matter what season of the year, when we are out in nature we leave our mark. Whether you are hiking, boating or cycling, we must be environmentally responsible. Another popular summer past-time is camping. Should you and your family be packing up the tent trailer, your group will have a better time by camping green and leaving your campsite in the same – or better – condition than you found it. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Sort your garbage. If you’re recycling at home, why not recycle when you are away? Take a few minutes to divide and bag your waste. Discard your bags properly on-site. Alternatively, pack your garbage back home to dispose of it there.
Replace purchased bottled water. Drop into any hardware or camping store before leaving town and you should be able to find a large water container or two. Fill these up with water from home and bring them along with you.
Roast your hotdogs or marshmallows on a lengthy roasting fork. You can also straighten out a wire coat hanger and this works just fine as well. The roasting fork and/or coat hanger can be washed off and reused repeatedly.
Avoid the temptation to use styrofoam dishes/cups. Such material does not break down well and is harmful to our environment. Instead, replace your dinnerware with real plates from your kitchen cupboard. The same can be said with replacing plastic cutlery.
Limit your driving when at the campsite. Keep your vehicle(s) parked. Instead, ride a bicycle or walk to your desired destinations … when you travel at a slower pace, you are far more likely to appreciate the beautiful scenery surrounding you.
By all means, have fun while camping this summer, but act responsibly to conserve our beautiful planet. Read more about how you can enjoy green camping here.
