In an effort to combat the environmental impact of increased outdoor activities, Leave No Trace Canada, in partnership with Subaru Canada, has launched an online campaign aimed at educating Canadians on preserving green spaces.
According to an Outdoor Canada report, the initiative comes as a response to the growing number of people seeking the mental and physical benefits of outdoor activities, which, while positive, has led to notable environmental challenges.
Richard Vinson, the chair for Leave No Trace Canada, highlighted the strain on land managers and trail groups due to the surge in outdoor enthusiasts.
According to Vinson, the influx of visitors has resulted in more waste, off-trail damage, campfire scars, wildlife disturbance, and user conflicts. These issues underscore the importance of responsible behavior in natural settings.
To address these concerns, Leave No Trace Canada and Subaru Canada have introduced the Leave No Trace Pledge. This campaign encourages individuals to adopt the Seven Principles of Leave No Trace, guidelines that promote sustainable use of parks and natural spaces. For every person who shares their pledge on social media, Subaru Canada has committed to planting a tree in the spring of 2024.
Tomohiro Kubota, chair, president, and CEO of Subaru Canada Inc., expressed the company’s dedication to mitigating environmental impacts through this initiative.
Vinson believes that the majority of the environmental impacts stem from a lack of awareness about better practices in nature. The Leave No Trace principles serve as a guide to help people become gentler users of natural spaces. These principles include planning ahead and preparing, traveling and camping on durable surfaces, disposing of waste properly, leaving what is found, minimizing campfire impacts, respecting wildlife, and being considerate of others.
The campaign’s impact extends beyond environmental preservation; it also offers significant benefits to the outdoor recreation industry. By promoting sustainable practices, it helps maintain the natural beauty and viability of outdoor recreational spaces, crucial for the industry’s sustainability and growth.
This initiative by Leave No Trace Canada and Subaru Canada represents a collaborative effort to safeguard natural spaces while ensuring their enjoyment for future generations. It highlights the importance of individual responsibility in preserving the environment.
The Leave No Trace Canada campaign, with the support of Subaru Canada, plays a vital role in educating the public about responsible outdoor practices. It aligns with broader goals of environmental conservation and sustainable outdoor recreation, making it a crucial movement for all Canadians who cherish their natural landscapes.