Every place you visit leaves a mark on you – but how do you make sure you don’t leave a mark on it? The answer is: follow the seven principles of Leave No Trace!
At Marshall Batteries, Australia’s most trusted roadside assistance provider, we have a deep appreciation for our great outdoors. That’s why we are proud to promote Leave No Trace – an internationally recognised set of outdoor ethics aimed at sustainable travel.
As the summer months approach and more and more Australians take to the road to explore our national parks, go camping or visit festivals, it’s to make sure our journeys have a minimal impact on the environment. So read on to see exactly how you can do that with these seven principles.
Table of Contents
1. Plan Ahead & Prepare
Before embarking on your journey, plan meticulously. Research your destination, the local regulations, and any specific guidelines for outdoor activities.
Consider the environmental impact of your trip and take steps to minimise it. Here are a few steps you can take to make sure your road trip is sustainable:
- Make sure your vehicle isn’t carrying unnecessary weight, as it can drag down fuel efficiency.
- Plan your driving route carefully to avoid unnecessary backtracking, which can waste fuel. See our guide to the best drives in Australia for ideas.
- Check if your car, campervan or 4WD is in good condition to hit the road because it runs more efficiently when in top shape; check your battery to see if it needs replacing and top up your oil and coolant levels
- Keep your tires properly inflated to boost fuel efficiency.
But, if you do run into any trouble on the road, just Holler for a Marshall at 1300 695 717! Our roadside assistance is here to ensure your peace of mind during your travels.
2. Travel & Camp on Durable Surfaces
Stick to existing trails and campsites that are open to the public to avoid damaging fragile ecosystems. Nature can be delicate.
When walking, hiking, or driving, tread lightly and be careful what you’re touching – try your hardest to leave the land the way you found it.
Want info on which trails and drives are open? Check out our guide to the four best drives in Australia for an epic road trip.
3. Dispose of Waste Properly
Always pack out what you pack in. Properly dispose of waste and litter in designated bins. If there are no bins available, carry your trash with you until you find one. Leave no trace of your presence.
Try not to take any plastic bottles with you – it’s easy to reach for a plastic bottle you see at the petrol station, and it’s also easy to throw away.
Not only are plastic bottles bad for the environment but there’s a reason why you see them as litter so often. Pack a drink bottle and do your pocket – and the environment – a big favour and leave no trace!
4. Leave What You Find
Preserve the natural beauty of Australia. Don’t pick plants, disturb wildlife, or deface natural or cultural features. Leave them as you found them for others to enjoy.
Don’t Miss: Indigenous Australia – The Must Visit Sites.
5. Minimise Campfire Impacts
If campfires are allowed in your chosen camping area, use established fire rings and keep fires small. Use a camp stove for cooking to minimise the impact on local wood resources.
Try to minimise your carbon footprint as well. Avoid packaged food and buy local produce & products. Not only does this reduce the impact of food transport on the environment, it also gives you the excuse to sample the local culture & cuisine.
6. Respect Wildlife
Keep a respectful distance from wildlife, and never feed them. Feeding can disrupt their natural behaviours and harm their health. Admire from afar and let them remain wild.
7. Be Considerate of Others
Lastly, be mindful of your fellow travellers. Keep noise levels down, yield the trail to others, and maintain a friendly and courteous attitude. A little consideration goes a long way.
So there you have it. The 7 Principles of Leave No Trace to minimise your impact on the environment when travelling. If you want to see the real, unspoiled Australia, we recommend checking out our list of the best Australian national park escapes.
And remember, if you get stuck with a flat battery, need roadside assistance, or even need a fuel top-up, call Marshall Batteries at 1300 627 742, and we’ll send a team from our battery store that’s closest to you.
Happy travels, and happy exploring!