Adventure seekers” are just one of seven clusters of travelers who “express shared attitudes and motivation towards travel,” according to results from an early 2024 McKinsey & Company survey. While just eight percent of travelers fell into the ‘adventure seeker’ archetype, McKinsey notes that this group values “remoteness, privacy, and sustainability.” For those who enjoy adventures out in the great outdoors, there are no shortage of ways to keep nature as clean as possible. From hiking gear to what you pack, even supporting local endeavors in unique ways can be good for the environment.
Low-impact choices right from the start
Whether you’re headed to a tried and true favorite trail or venturing out into new territory, putting nature first and foremost is essential to maintain the integrity of the natural environment. While seasoned adventure hikers are well aware of practices like ‘leave no trace’ and bringing along eco-friendly products like the Original Anti-Bottle to prevent unnecessary waste, there are additional considerations to be had. Before booking plans for the adventure of a lifetime, low-impact choices can result in a lessened environmental impact in significant ways.
Staying mindful of crowded places and unnecessary travel are key when the goal is to plan an outdoor adventure with a lessened environmental impact. One Forbes article by Judy Koutsky points out that low-impact destinations that feature sustainable infrastructure can make a major difference in regard to the availability of eco-friendly options. For instance, a bit of research beforehand can lead to an outdoor pursuit that is located near multiple eco-friendly accommodation options. Other considerations include the timing and duration of your trip — Koutsky notes that trips during off-peak seasons can help lessen the strain on popular destinations. “Additionally, opting for fewer, longer trips rather than frequent short ones can lower your overall carbon footprint,” Koutsky writes. Staying close to home is another great solution for those who wish to minimize their carbon footprint, especially if you have yet to hike and explore local trails.
Sourcing your gear (sustainably, of course)
From the right shoes to a solid backpack, outdoor gear is essential to any adventure. While seasoned individuals are likely to already have trusted gear, those in search of something new (or those who are investing in gear for the first time) may find it a challenge to find solutions that are truly sustainable. While one solution lies in the ability to purchase second-hand gear, those in search of new sustainable options can find the task particularly difficult. In addition to the importance of quality, the hunt for a product that is truly sustainable can be an issue all on its own with challenges like greenwashing, which is often defined as deceptive marketing in which companies mislead consumers about how eco-friendly a product really is. One Forbes article by Dianne Plummer suggests several ways that individuals can do their research, such as keeping an eye out for third-party eco-labels to researching a brand’s sustainability history and even the product’s lifecycle.
Sustainably sourced gear is a great way for adventure hikers to stay true to the environment while obtaining everything necessary for a safe and enjoyable hike, whether you’re in search of the perfect light jacket or new hiking boots. In many cases, thorough research can go far, especially when it comes to purchasing gear from a company. This involves looking into a company’s practices when it comes to the environment, such as how they procure their products. Sustainability in the procurement process is key for businesses throughout the United States when the goal is to reduce environmental impact in the supply chain, it’s important to consider that many may not have sustainable practices fully implemented throughout the process. While challenges range from lack of funding to a lack of the right technology, businesses can integrate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations and criteria into the smallest steps of the process.
Keep it local
Beyond sustainably sourced gear, supporting local businesses is a fantastic way to maintain an eco-friendly ethos while traveling for adventure. Certified sustainable accommodation options are a primary way to do this, though even the smallest efforts can make a large impact on the local community. For example, planning an activity like a kayak or surf lesson, or even a guided adventure hike with a local guide or company (rather than a large, non-local commercial chain) can help support the local economy. Additional benefits include an authentic and traditional experience — a hike with a local, for instance, can be a great way to connect with and learn about the area, as well as see hidden gem sights that a non-local guide may not be familiar with.
Showing your support for the local economy can extend to food, a necessary element for anyone headed into the great outdoors. Those who plan to head out on a morning hike, for instance, may choose to have a cup of coffee at a local shop instead of bringing along packages of instant coffee (which will then lead to unnecessary waste out on the trail). Sourcing sustainable gear and showing support for local businesses can easily go hand in hand. For instance, a local shop that sells solid toiletries (such as shampoo in a bar form, toothpaste tablets, etc.) or homemade snacks can all make for great backpack additions for an extended hike or camping trip.
Outdoor adventures are the best way to explore the world, and there are several ways to put nature at the forefront of the journey. From sustainably sourced gear to the value of supporting the local community, adventurists can consider the various aspects at play for a trip that is as eco-friendly as possible.
