Eco-camping: 8 best practices for responsible campers
It’s a fact, you’ve adopted eco-responsible gestures in your daily life, at home and at the office. But now you’re going on vacation, and you don’t want to see your ecological conscience compromised during this time of relaxation? Adopteco-camping!
First and foremost, camping is a great way to stay connected to nature while on vacation. By incorporating a few habits into your stay, you can help preserve natural spaces while enjoying an authentic experience.
Good news! Faced with environmental challenges, more and more campsites are seeking to reduce their ecological impact and raise environmental awareness among campers.
Here are the eight best practices of eco-camping.
1. Choose an eco-responsible campsite
Look for campsites with ecological labels. Green Key or European Ecolabel certification, these labels guarantee sustainable management of energy, water and waste.
On average, a tourist establishment that commits to an ecological transition emits 30% less greenhouse gases.
Source: GHG balance sheet for the tourism sector in France – ADEME – April 2021
? To help you, the Cottage Parks platform lists campsites committed to an eco-responsible approach on a daily basis. With accommodation produced in France, second-hand furniture and the most eco-friendly equipment possible, discover all our ecological commitments.
2. Reduce your carbon footprint on vacation
Use environmentally-friendly modes of transport to get to the campsite (carpooling, train, bike). And limit car travel once you’re there.
In this case, you’ll want to opt for soft mobility, such as walking, cycling or even taking public transport. Many campsites offer bicycles for hire, so you can explore the surrounding area without using your car.
? Taking the bus isn’t always an option with families or young children. But if you’re coming by electric car, more and more campsites offer recharging stations to keep yourvacation carbon footprint to a minimum.
3. Limiting energy consumption at the campsite
Equip yourself with low-energy devices, such as LED lamps or portable solar panels to recharge your appliances.
Also, avoid using energy-hungry electrical equipment and opt for alternatives such as gas stoves for cooking.
On the other hand :
- minimize the use of artificial lighting at night to protect nocturnal ecosystems;
- avoid unnecessary noise to preserve the tranquility of the area.
Your eco-camping neighbors will thank you, and you’ll be able to see the stars better!
? Many campsites are now installing solar panels to generate their own electricity and heat water for the sanitary facilities. They are also installing LED bulbs and motion detectors in communal areas.
4. Use water in moderation when camping
Water is a precious resource that should be used sensibly, even on vacation. Reduce your consumption by taking quick showers. Avoid leaving the water running while brushing your teeth or washing up… It’s common sense!
? Some campsites set up rainwater recovery systems. They use it to water plants or clean the ground around the swimming pool.
5. Reducing and sorting waste at the campsite
Generally speaking, waste reduction is essential. When camping, it starts with reducing single-use packaging. Opt for reusable containers and bags.
Waste sorting is just as crucial: check out the facilities available on the campsite for recycling plastic, glass and organic waste. Deposit your food waste in the composting areas, which are now compulsory.
You can also avoid food waste by planning your meals in advance and buying only what you need.
? An eco-responsible campsite must encourage waste reduction at source. This starts with a zero-plastic policy, offering reusable alternatives such as stainless steel cups and bamboo straws in catering areas.
6. Respect biodiversity on vacation
Campsites are often located in areas rich in biodiversity. It’s essential to stay on the marked trails so as not to trample vegetation or disturb local wildlife. Also, avoid picking plants or disturbing animal habitats.
As for your hygiene products, opt for biodegradable versions to limit their impact on aquatic or terrestrial ecosystems.
? An eco-responsible campsite must blend harmoniously into its natural environment. To achieve this, it is essential to preserve local plant species and avoid invasive planting.
7. Shop local during the vacations
When camping, good eco-responsible practices also include choosing local, sustainable food. This choice not only supports local producers, but also reduces the carbon footprint associated with transporting food.
Short circuits, such as direct farm sales and farmers’ markets, are an excellent option for sourcing fresh, local, seasonal food with minimal impact on the environment. It’s also a great way to discover local culinary specialties!
? The restaurant at an eco-responsible campsite can support the local economy by sourcing its produce from neighboring producers.
Some facilities even offer shared vegetable gardens, where campers can grow their own fruit and vegetables.
8. Share best eco-camping practices
Being eco-responsible at the campsite also means making other campers aware of the importance of these actions. Share your knowledge and encourage others to adopt sustainable behaviors. This can take the form of simple discussions, or even participation in ecological workshops organized at certain campsites.
? Ask about campsites offering nature-related activities, such as guided walks to discover local flora and fauna, nest box-building workshops or beach clean-up sessions. Note: an eco-responsible campsite not only educates its guests, but also trains its staff in environmentally-friendly practices.
Let’s go on an eco-camping vacation!
You now have a few keys to continuing your ecological efforts, even on vacation.
But eco-friendly camping doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort. Discover the advantages of eco-chic camping and enjoy a responsible, enjoyable vacation!