Leave No Trace has become more important than ever. Here you can learn more about the 7 principles or guidelines of this important framework.
Leave No Trace
Things like rubbish left in the countryside, scorch marks after someone using a disposable BBQ or abandoned campsites have been found across Scotland for quite some time and those sights have unfortunately increased (recent BBC news article).
On all of our walks, mostly local in and around Edinburgh, we have been picking up rubbish wherever we go. We always head out prepared to do our bit as seeing rubbish can be heart-breaking. A few rubbish bags, some gloves and/or hand gel go a long way. I encourage everyone to do the same on their explorations.
It’s nice to put actions where your words are…
I have been a certified Leave No Trace Trainer since 2015 and have taught around 50+ courses in the past few years. To be a Leave No Trace trainer means that I’m trained to lead 1 day awareness workshops to help other outdoor users learn about the Seven Principles and how to best implement them while camping and walking.
The Seven Principles of Leave No Trace have been around since the 1960’s and have barely changed. The concept was a response to the increased use of especially National Parks in the US but have soon spread across the globe. These principles are guidelines, not strict rules as things can’t always be black or white.
1. plan ahead and prepare,
2. travel and camp on durable surfaces,
3. dispose of waste properly,
4. leave what you find,
5. minimize campfire impacts,
6. respect wildlife and farm animals,
7. be considerate of other visitors.
In my one day training courses, we workshop through each principle, sharing experiences and knowledge as we go along.
Those who complete a Leave No Trace Awareness Workshop are equipped to:
• Understand, promote and share minimum impact techniques with organisations, friends, family or community groups;
• Lead a discussion on outdoor ethics and help others explore their own personal outdoor ethic;
• Understand and explain why Leave No Trace is important in all areas,
• Understand and convey the purpose and mission of Leave No Trace;
• Recite and explain the seven principles of Leave No Trace.
Please get in touch if you would like to learn more about Leave No Trace.
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