“We do not inherit the Earth from our ancestors; we borrow it from our children.”
-Native American Proverb.
The term “Leave No Trace” refers to a set of outdoor ethics promoting conservation and responsible recreation. It encourages individuals to enjoy nature without causing lasting impact. At its core, Leave No Trace means: minimizing human impact on natural environments, being mindful about how we interact with nature, whether hiking, camping, or spending time outdoors. The movement is composed of seven principles.
- Plan Ahead and Prepare
Know the area, weather, and regulations. Proper planning reduces risk and minimizes impact.
- Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
Stick to marked trails and campsites, this reduces damage to fragile ecosystems.
- Dispose of Waste Properly
Take out what you bring, including all trash, leftover food, and litter. Use designated restrooms or dig holes for human waste when possible.
- Leave What you Find
Preserve existing ecosystems. Avoid the temptation to pick plants, disturb wildlife, or take artifacts.
- Minimize Campfire Impact
Use a camp stove or established fire rings. Keep fires small and ensure they are fully extinguished.
- Respect Wildlife
Observe animals from a distance. Never attempt to feed them, doing so disrupts their natural behavior and diet. It also poses a risk to their safety.
- Be Considerate of Other Visitors
Be respectful with noise, yield on trails, and respect others’ experience of nature.
Leave No Trace goes well beyond the outdoor wilderness setting. It can also be applied to both urban and suburban settings. Consider your local parks, community gardens and outdoor event spaces. We can also apply this practice towards reducing our digital and consumer “trace.” Consider reducing consumable waste such as single use plastics, and disposable goods, and reducing food waste with mindful consumption and purchasing. The leave no trace philosophy also supports personal wellness. How we treat ourselves and the environment supports better mental and physical health. Nature is a space for healing and reflection.
Strong communities are built through shared responsibility. There are local and statewide organizations that you can become involved with to support outdoor ethics. Start on your journey to Leaving No Trace.
Written by: Sofia Carter, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, Ohio State University Extension Champaign County
Reviewed by: Shannon Carter, Family and Consumer Sciences Assistant Professor, Ohio State University Fairfield County
Sources:
Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics. (n.d.). The 7 principles. https://lnt.org/why/7-principles/
Ohio State University Extension. (2020). Using a Community Supported Agriculture Share to Plan Family Meals (HYG-5593). Ohioline. https://ohioline.osu.edu/factsheet/hyg-5593
The Nature Conservancy. (n.d.). Get involved in Ohio. The Nature Conservancy. https://www.nature.org/en-us/about-us/where-we-work/united-states/ohio/get-involved/