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Rock climbing is not just an extreme sport for daredevils. In fact, for most climbers, it is a safe, healthy, way to get outside, have fun, and spend time with friends. Though climbing requires close contact with the earth, it is not always the most environmentally friendly activity. From generating emissions to eroding soils, there are a number of eco-sins being committed at climbing crags around the world.
Here are six tips to help you go green on your next climbing trip:
- Stay local
It's tempting to set your sites on world-famous climbing destinations hours from your home but the fuel used to get to these places, and the emission produced in the process, increase your trip's carbon footprint significantly. Instead, seek out a climbing area closer to home. Start by asking the staff of a nearby climbing gym or checking online at rockclimbing.com.
- Share a ride
Whether you decide to climb close to home or take a road trip, make sure you have some company in the car. Driving yourself may seem more convenient, but it increases your group's fuel consumption and emissions exponentially. Furthermore, parking at climbing areas is frequently limited. Piling into one car improves your carbon footprint and leaves room for other people.
- Limit your impact
When it comes to limiting your impact while climbing, it is best to take a lesson from the experts at Leave No Trace. Specifically, climbers should take care to remain on durable surfaces, like rocks and established trails, when walking to and from climbs. Also important, though I hope obvious, is to dispose of your waste properly and remain respectful of others in the area.
- Leash your dog
Lots of climbers like to bring their dogs along and, often, their well-behaved companions are perfectly acceptable. However, many dogs do not exhibit such decorum. A crowded climbing area in the summer, full of people, open lunches, and other animals, is an exciting place for a dog. When dogs run wild they risk causing erosion, spreading waste and garbage, and even creating a dangerous situation by distracting climbers. If you must bring your dog along, be sure to pack a leash as well.
- Collect trash
For the most part, climbers are conscious of and careful with their waste. Still, the base of many a popular climb is littered with bits of athletic tape, scraps of foil and food wrappers, and even cigarette butts. Do your part and pick up the trash from the base of the climbs when you are finished, even if you didn't drop it there to begin with.
- Adopt a Crag
If you really want to help make climbing a green activity, consider organizing an Adopt a Crag event. Started by the Access Fund, a climbing-centered conservation and advocacy group, these events bring local climbers together to rebuild trails and clean-up climbing areas.
Summer is almost here, so grab your rope, hop in the car with your friends, and hit the rocks. Just remember to be safe and gentle to the planet.
Read more about outdoor activities:
How to Go Green: Outdoor Sports
Learn Outdoor Ethics with Leave No Trace
Top 5 Hiking Spots in the U.S.
Get Hiking: Start Planning for the Appalachian Trail
Take a Greener Backpacking Trip, 4 Tips
