Green Living: Outdoor Recreation
Find An Alternitive To Disposables
No more disposables. It's easy, more cost effective, and makes a big difference. Instead of taking along paper napkins, paper plates, Styrofoam cups, disposable food containers and other things that will just end up as trash at the end of your picnic, camping trip or other outdoor excursion, pack reusables. A simple picnic set can save you lots of money over the years - you'll already have everything you need instead of having to purchase it over and over again. Getting coffee to bring along on your morning hike? Bring your thermos or mug to the coffee shop instead of getting a throwaway cup. Think about what you end up throwing away at the end of each activity, and try to find ways to eliminate most of it. It's easier than you think!
Pack It In Pack It Ot
That means leave nothing behind - bring it all back with you. If you were able to carry it with you in the first place, why not tote it home as well? Leaving behind something as small as an aluminum can will have repercussions that will last beyond the lifetimes of generations of your descendants - they don't decompose for 200 to 400 years! Furthermore, if you see litter along the trails, at parks and other outdoor areas, pick it up. You can bring a small washable cloth bag or re-use a grocery bag to keep it in. You'll be making your favorite outdoor recreation spots more beautiful and you'll feel good about what you've done.
Don't Wander
Stay on the beaten path, and check out the rules & regulations for the areas you're visiting. Some national parks, for example, may have strict rules about fishing, boating or making campfires. They aren't trying to put a damper on your fun - they're protecting the plants and animals in the area. Endangered or protected species may have a fragile residence within the park, vulnerable to being upset by oblivious humans going about their outdoor recreation.
I Can't Drive 55
Use manpower. Instead of a gas powered boat, take a rowboat on your next fishing trip out on the lake. Ride your bicycle to the park instead of driving. Rather than taking your car right up to your camp site, which can disturb wildlife, park near the road and walk. Get gear that will be lightweight and easy to carry - streamlined, soft-sided coolers and picnic backpacks can be a big help.
Whatever your choices of eco-friendly recreation, the basic objectives are the same. Green recreation:
- Conserves resources by enabling you to take advantage of what nature readily provides.
- Cuts down on pollution by minimizing activities which require the use of sophisticated machines that emit harmful gases.
- Helps to build innate mind and body strength and foster your connection with the natural world.
- Contributes to preserving a legacy that future generations can enjoy.
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