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Spring is one of the most beautiful seasons to walk, run or stroll in nature. Whether in the mountains or on the plains, flowers grow, smell good and the temperatures are ideal for exploring or even bivouacking in the open air.
Very often during these springtime hikes, we look for tranquility. We want to recharge our batteries, get out of our comfort zone and take a break from our usual environment.
But nature also needs its tranquility, and to preserve it and leave no more tracks than our footprints, how about going on a "zero impact" hike?
"Food and hydration, the first causes of waste"
It is important to know that nutrition and hydration are the first causes of waste, mainly due to packaging . Every year, Lafuma co-organizes the clean-up of the Mer de Glace and collects about 2 tons of waste. Certainly a lot of waste is old cans spit out by the glacier, but it is also a lot of packaging that is found ...
We can then take a few simple steps before, during and after the hike to reduce our footprint.
Before your adventure
- For picnics or snacks, why not cook your own cereal bars or lunches, avoiding ready-made products as much as possible?
Nothing very complicated, and it's so much more tasty and nourishing than what you can find in supermarkets! You can find a lot of recipes on the internet, for example at this blog.
- Our little secret if you're hiking with children, use soft, reusable gourds to put the homemade applesauce in!
- Also, reusable cloth bags are the best allies of zero waste! Whether it's to transport your seeds in bulk or your sandwich, they allow you to save a lot of money on packaging. And what's more, you can make them yourself! At LafumaOur employees make their own Tote Bag by reusing fabric scraps that are no longer used in the workshop!
- Finally, there are now very practical containers since they are retractable once they are empty, saving space in the backpack. Ideal for tabbouleh or other homemade summer salads, you won't regret carrying your airtight box.
After your adventure
Why don't you tell your family and friends about the zero-impact hike, to spread the word and make an even greater impact?
Also, zero waste doesn't just apply to hiking, you can try it at home and reduce your footprint as much as possible! Visit the Zero Waste France website for tips and tricks, or the website of the now famous Zero Waste Family!
Of course, during the hike, don't forget to put the little waste you generate in a small bin bag, to be emptied at home when you get home, respecting the sorting instructions.
During your adventure
Even though food and hydration are essential elements when hiking in the mountains, hygiene is also an important aspect, which can be a source of waste and harmful to nature. But here again, there are solutions!
- For washing your handsAntibacterial gels are very convenient and effective.
To wash your body, avoid cleansing wipes that can only be used once and end up in the trash very quickly. Instead, use a moistened washcloth and a moistened glove. a soap that respects the fauna and flora : solution without packaging and reusable!
Finally...
The association Leave No Trace has written 7 principles to enjoy nature in a sustainable way by minimizing the impact created by Man:
- Plan and prepare your trip well in advance
- Do not camp on fragile or protected surfaces.
- Collect all your garbage
- Leave the place in the same state as we found it (even cleaner!)
- Minimize the impact of a campfire
- Respecting wildlife
- Be kind to other visitors
Finally, don't forget to equip yourself with responsible and durable products to keep them as long as possible!
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