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. While camping, its important to do so while leaving the smallest ecological footprint possible, there are some clever tricks to keeping your camping “green” and safe.
Camping Gear
You can make green camping choices before you even leave home. Second-hand gear can be picked up at garage sales, on Craigslist or by checking out Mountain Equipment Co-op’s online gear swap service. If you’re a first-time camper, try to borrow camping equipment to see whether you like living in the great outdoors before you invest in your own gear.
Go Low –Tech
A tent and sleeping bag is far more environmentally friendly than a motor home or camper trailer. Motor homes require large amounts of fuel and energy to keep in operation every day. You can enjoy a true outdoor camping excursion more if you do it electricity free. Leave the games, portable TVs, and computers at home. Pack a cell phone or PDA in case of emergencies but turn it off .
Cookware
Use real dishes, cups, cutlery and other cooking utensils, instead of disposable ones, to cut down on your waste. You can buy those items and leave them in your camping gear, or just use sturdy dishes, mugs and cutlery from home for your camping trips. While you’re at it, bring real napkins, dish cloths and dish towels to use at the site instead of paper towels and napkins. The linens can all be washed when you get home.
Sorting your garbage
Even though you’re away from home, you can still sort your trash. Divide your waste into recyclables, garbage and compostables, if there is composting on site, or if you compost at home. Most campgrounds offer garbage and recycling collection, and some also have composting facilities. If you’re bringing your compostable waste home, designate a sealed container or a Ziploc-style bag to hold it and thus keep the smell contained.
Going on a green camping trip can be one of the more fun vacations you take this summer. Look into ways you can help make less of an impact on the environment the next time you venture out into your province’s mountain country or forested parks.
Make a difference − share this environmental tip with your friends.
