Adventure is just around the corner. All you need is to make sure it is harmless for both – Nature & You.
Leave a trail cleaner: Bring back everything. Reusable Zip lock bags/any small garbage polybag to be used. Always re-pack all the wrappers of the eatables and non -biodegradable waste in reusable zip lock bags. This way it is ensuring that we do not have to discard individual wrappers along the way as one wrapper adds to the bulk of trash found on the trails. Make an effort to pack out existing litter. Carry out all that you carried in.
Use and Reuse should be the norm: Always carry refillable water bottles with you. Plastic bottles should be a big no “NO”. Do not carry non-biodegradable products.
A small garbage bag tied to the backpack: This makes an easy and effective garbage collection device. Not only will this help keep the trail clean, but studies have shown that people are more reluctant to throw garbage in a place that is clean.
Walk on established trails and don’t take shortcuts: Do not create new paths and campsites. New paths or campsites disrupt the purity and serenity of the area. Keeping to established trails also gives places that are just beginning to show a positive impact, the chance to heal themselves.
For Human waste: Bury human waste in cat hole about 6-8″ deep, 200 feet from any water sources, campsites, or trails. You can dig a small pit in the sandy area and poop there and then cover it and pace one seed. A small garden trowel can be used to make a cat hole which is inexpensive and lightweight. Dump all the biodegradable waste also in a small pit so that it can be converted into manure.
Not to put the paper down toilets and no disposing of them in the bins: You’re using toilet tents – which are basically cat holes. They don’t have waste management systems. No one wants to see toilet paper scattered over a beautiful mountain site. Burning toilet paper is not recommended as it will cause forest fires. The collected waste usually goes down a river or is hidden away behind the rocks. So, we insist that everyone take their own non-biodegradable waste back to their city and then dispose of them – not only sanitary waste, but anything such as wrappers, or plastic bags.
Use some seeds: Soon the season of fruits like mango, jamun, jack fruit, etc. Don’t throw the seeds, wash them and pack it. Whenever you find barren land on a highway, throw these seeds. They will germinate easily the coming monsoon. If with this act, we can contribute even a single tree each to our world, our mission is successful.
Respect the environment and Don’t start wood fires: The smallest careless actions may lead to forest fires. This can be disastrous for local eco-systems and people.
Don’t pollute water sources; use biodegradable Soap. When you wash your hands at home, the suds vanish down the drain. But in the woods, the phosphates in soap can promote algae blooms in lakes and streams. To protect water sources, hikers should NOT use regular hand or dish soap in or near water. Instead, choose biodegradable soaps that revert back to their organic ingredients like products.
Carbon credit: Make your full trip ecofriendly by saving a ton of carbon footprint on your way. A little walking or hiring a cycle in the local area won’t harm but would double up the fun and adventure part of your trip.
Lastly be considerate of other visitors as well. Simple steps like no loud music, alcohol or something as simple as giving enough space to the campers next door can greatly help enhance an outdoor experience. Always respect the traditions and customs of the place.
Adventure does not mean going to beautiful places and sitting on the edge of the mountain. Leave the place undisturbed as if no one ever visited so that others could have the same feeling.
