Apr 20, 2020

How to Have a Responsible Earth Day

With everything going on in the world right now, it can be easy for things like Earth Day to fly under the radar. Even though you may be self-isolating, that doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t enjoy time in the outdoors. Here at Staheekum, we know we’ve definitely been spending too much time staring longingly out the window. If you do decide to trade your comfy house slippers for outdoor footwear, we hope you follow these guidelines for how to safely enjoy outdoor spaces for a healthy Earth Day. Check out our footwear for men and women to ease that transition from indoor to outdoor adventures!

Thanks to our partners at Leave No Trace for providing content for this month’s blog post.

1. You and YOUr outdoor world

You may be asking: Can I go for a hike or walk on the beach right now? Your personal vulnerability, the health of others in your community, access to local and uncrowded spaces and more play into this decision. Then there are communities and states with either lockdown, shelter in place or stay at home mandates. Where Covid-19 is spiking, it may not be possible to get out at all, so pay close attention to guidance in your community before heading outside. Then follow physical distancing guidance, meaning staying at least six feet away from anyone not living with you.

2. Expect closures

As businesses limit services or direct their staff to work remotely, closures should be expected. The result could be a lack of water, restrooms, campgrounds, or other facilities—or even entire areas closed to the public. Many land managers are recommending that you bring your own toilet paper, hand sanitizer and such — or refrain from using public restrooms (and other facilities) as they may not be cleaned or restocked for extended periods. Take necessary precautions like bringing extra food and water, learning how to go to the bathroom outdoors, and being ready to pack all your trash out with you.

3. AVOID TIMES AND PLACES OF HIGH USE

Absolutely avoid crowded parks, trails, and beaches. Physical distancing applies in the outdoors just as it does anywhere else. To avoid being part of the creation of large crowds and groups at popular outdoor areas, spread out to less popular spots, and avoid times of highest use if possible. Remember these Tips For Handling Crowds in Outdoor Spaces.

3. Pack out your trash

With limited staff and services likely in many parks and protected areas, trash and recycling receptacles may not be emptied as often as normal or at all. This can result in trash overflowing from receptacles which becomes litter and can harm wildlife. Instead, pack your trash and recyclables out with you all the way home and utilize your own receptacles.

5. Proceed with caution

Keep in mind that as our healthcare system becomes more overwhelmed, it’s important to reduce potential accidents that would add to the stress on first responders and medical professionals. As much as possible, stick to activities and areas that are within your regular routine and take it easy.

6. Don't forget the LNT 7 practices

Just because times are tough, doesn’t mean the Leave No Trace 7 Principles fly out the window. Our natural areas will likely be receiving less attention from staff and volunteers right now. This means our shared spaces need us to act as stewards more than ever. Remember, it is still just as important to prepare for spring weather conditions, stick to trails, dispose of our waste properly, minimize fire impacts, leave what we find, keep a safe distance from wildlife, and general do your best to eliminate impacts.

7. be considerate and kind to others

We are all in this together. Be considerate of others in the outdoors by ensuring that you practice physical distancing. Be particularly kind to park staff during these challenging times. Help them do their job by doing your part to take care of each other and our beloved outdoors.

We will see you out there on the other side of this!