Adventuring Responsibly: Eco-friendly Tips From the Outdoor Prolink Team
Earth day is a time to celebrate and support environmental protection for our planet. While there are certainly big changes to be made, there are also small things that we can all do to make our everyday adventures a little more green. To celebrate this year, some of the Outdoor Prolink crew are sharing their tips for making their adventures more sustainable.
Sajani: Avoid Plastic Water Bottles
I want to share the story of my latest travel with zero single use water bottle purchases.
I have a very sensitive throat and hesitate to drink water from unknown sources. But all thanks to Grayl and their GeoPress water purifier, I have been able to drink water from just about anywhere. Sure it’s a little bulkier compared to other regular bottles, but the prize of not having to buy plastic is worth it.
I have carried this purifier with me on practically all my recent travels whether it’s on a hike or for a dip in the water. I have used water straight out of taps, collected from waterfalls, acquired from rivers, and have always had safe, clean drinking water after using this filter.
PS: I wish it were, but it is not a paid promotion.
Lano: Always Carpool
My Earth Day tip is to carpool to adventures whenever possible! This not only helps the planet by reducing carbon emissions with my adventure pals, but it also helps to maintain my sanity as a driver when heading out to the mountains in Colorado. We don’t need any more cars on I-70, thank you.
Kenzie: Avoid Single Use Items
Mine is really simple but it goes a long way: any time I am traveling or on the road, I bring camping spork/utensils in my bag. When you are eating out a lot, it helps to have your own utensils so you don’t have to keep wasting plastic ones! I also bring Stasher bags with me for snacks and such. When I buy something in a plastic bag or come across a Ziploc, I save and rewash them until they are unusable! And of course, always have a reusable water bottle and coffee mug on me.
Kelly: Use Refillable Propane Tanks
Using single-use camping fuel canisters can be harmful to our environment. There are ways to recycle these canisters (MSR has a canister recycling program), but if you don’t dispose of them properly they could end up in a landfill or be hazardous if they’re not fully emptied beforehand. As an alternative, I have switched over to using a refillable 5lb propane tank for car camping. In order to make your camping stove compatible, you’ll need to buy a hose that works with your stove. Using this method, you’re not only being more environmentally friendly, you’re also saving a ton of money.
Andy: Buy Used Gear
My earth day tip is buy used gear! There are ton of great resources out there for gently used gear and it’s not only environmentally friendly, but also wallet friendly. For instance, Patagonia’s Worn Wear program absolutely rocks. You can buy discounted, quality goods and you can even trade in your old gear as well. I would also recommend visiting your local gear shop and see if they have a used gear section or consignment sales. Feral in Denver, Colorado is a great example. I’ve gotten cash and in-store credit for bringing my lightly used, working-condition gear in. With options like these around we can help keep clothing and gear out of the landfill and spend less on our personal gear purchases.
While these are all relatively small examples, they can make a big difference when we’re all thinking progressively. Being eco conscious about your road trips, where you get clean water, or where you purchase new gear are great steps in the right direction for eco-friendliness! We, as consumers, have a large amount of power to influence and push the needle toward a healthier, more sustainable planet.
About the Gear Tester
Andrew Brookens is a native Michigander who now lives and works in Denver, Colorado for Outdoor Prolink on the marketing team. When he's not at work, he's obsessively exploring the west for climbing of all styles. He's equally psyched to get after some skiing, backpacking, and trail running as well! He believes that strong coffee and long days out in the mountains with friends are the key to a happy life. Follow him on instagram @brookensandrew.
