Leave No Trace (LNT)

Introduction for the outdoor enthusiasts of Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a land blessed with a diverse ecological system that is recognized globally for its unique blend of ecosystems. From the golden beaches surrounding the island to the misty and cold central highlands, this is a nation unlike no other with so much to offer for the keen outdoor enthusiasts.

Over the past decade (2010 – 2020) the number of local outdoor enthusiasts has multiplied in hundreds opening doors to an ever-growing industry of outdoor adventure outfits ranging from, individually operated hiking clubs to fully-fledged commercial organizations operating both locally and internationally. Among many other factors, with the increase in the use of social media platforms and the convenience to do so, these numbers are growing rapidly.

This increased number of visitors to the outdoors comes with a far more significant cost which cannot be measured by a monetary value. Pollution.

How can we minimize our impact on mother nature? What are the steps we can take today towards preserving the outdoors and its therapeutic power for our future generations? 

As an advocator of the Leave No Trace (LNT) outdoor ethics, herewith I would like to introduce to you the seven (07) simple principles stipulated by the Leave no trace center for outdoor ethics, that can easily be adapted to our local context as well. 

The seven (07) principles of Leave No Trace (LNT) provide an easily understood framework of minimum impact practices for anyone visiting the outdoors. Although Leave No Trace has its roots in backcountry settings, the Principles have been adapted so that they can be applied anywhere — from remote wilderness areas to local parks and even in your own backyard. They also apply to almost every recreational activity. Each Principle covers a specific topic and provides detailed information for minimizing impacts.

The Seven principles are well established and widely known, but they are not static. The Leave No Trace Centre for Outdoor Ethics continually examines evaluates and reshapes the Principles. The Centre’s Education Department conducts research — including publishing scholarly articles in independent journals — to ensure that the Principles are up to date with the latest insights from biologists, land managers, and other leaders in outdoor education.

The seven (07) principals of Leave No Trace (LNT),

1. Plan ahead & prepare
2. Travel & camp on durable surfaces
3. Dispose of waste properly
4. Leave what you find
5. Minimize campfire impacts
6. Respect wildlife
7. Be considerate of other visitors