The Leave-No-Trace approach encourages visitors to enjoy natural spaces while minimising their impact on the environment. By following simple principles, outdoor routes can remain clean, safe, and sustainable for future users.
Leave-No-Trace is about awareness, respect, and responsibility, ensuring that human presence does not harm ecosystems or reduce the quality of outdoor experiences.
Plan Ahead and Prepare
Before visiting a trail, check route information, weather conditions, and accessibility details. Proper planning helps visitors choose suitable routes, avoid risks, and reduce unnecessary environmental impact.
Stay on Marked Trails
Using designated paths protects vegetation and soil. Leaving the trail can damage plant life, cause erosion, and disturb wildlife habitats.
Dispose of Waste Properly
Carry Out What You Bring In
All litter, including food waste, should be taken back with you. Even biodegradable waste can harm wildlife and alter natural ecosystems.
Use Provided Facilities
If waste bins or toilets are available, use them correctly and responsibly.
Leave Natural Features Undisturbed
Do not pick flowers, remove stones, or alter natural features. These elements play an important role in the ecosystem and contribute to the character of the landscape.
Respect Wildlife
Observe animals quietly and from a distance. Avoid feeding wildlife or approaching nests and resting areas, as this can cause stress and disrupt natural behaviour.
Be Considerate of Other Visitors
Share trails respectfully with others. Keep noise levels low, allow space for passing, and be mindful of people with different abilities and needs.
Protect Trail Infrastructure
Respect signage, benches, barriers, and trail markings. Damaging infrastructure reduces safety and accessibility for others.
Common Behaviours to Avoid
- Leaving litter or food waste on the trail
- Creating shortcuts or new paths
- Picking plants or disturbing wildlife
- Damaging signage or facilities
- Making excessive noise
Leaving Trails Better Than You Found Them
Leave-No-Trace principles help preserve natural spaces and ensure that trails remain welcoming and accessible. By acting responsibly, every visitor contributes to the long-term protection and enjoyment of outdoor environments.
