Waterways Ireland is part of a new Government campaign promoting responsible behaviour when enjoying the outdoors and help turn back a recent increase in litter hotspots, particularly in scenic locations.

​Love This Place, Leave No Trace is a joint initiative with Leave No Trace Ireland alongside the National Parks and Wildlife Service, Inland Fisheries Ireland, Fáilte Ireland, Coillte and the OPW.
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The campaign comes after what’s been described as “a notable increase” in littering throughout the country in recent weeks since the easing of coronavirus-related movement restrictions.

“We need to take action now to halt the scourge of litter in our beautiful countryside,” said Maura Kiely, chief executive of Leave No Trace Ireland.

“Everyone needs to take responsibility. Littering is a threat to our fragile ecosystems and a moment of laziness can have long-term effects.

“An aluminium can takes 400 to 500 years to break down; a plastic bag can take up to 20 years. A discarded plastic bottle, meanwhile, will last for a million years.”

‘As more of us ‘make a break for it in Ireland’ this year, let’s respect the environment which is one of Ireland's greatest assets’

Catherine Martin, Minister for Media, Tourism, Arts, Culture, Sport and the Gaeltacht, welcomed the new campaign.

“We all love to exercise and be active in our scenic outdoor spaces so let’s ensure they remain accessible to all by Leaving No Trace and keeping our natural environment litter-free.

“As more of us ‘make a break for it in Ireland’ this year, let’s respect the environment which is one of Ireland's greatest assets.”

Minister of State for Heritage and Electoral Reform, Malcolm Noonan, added: “Litter, disturbance to vegetation, water pollution, wildlife, livestock and other people are all indicators of the need to develop a national ethic that protects both natural and cultural heritage.

“I would encourage everyone to treat our natural heritage with the respect it deserves and to follow the principles of Leave No Trace.”

Leave No Trace issued its guidelines on how to be responsible in the outdoors earlier this year — and further details, including outdoor skills and tips for planning, are available from Leave No Trace Ireland HERE.

Outdoor ethics programme Leave No Trace Ireland has published a set of simple guidelines for getting outdoors responsibly and safely amid the Covid-19 crisis.

“Now, more than ever, it is vitally important that collectively, we use the outdoors responsibly, taking care of each other and taking care of our local environs, our magnificent wildlife, our lands and waters,” the programme said.

“As seen in the media, overcrowding at popular outdoor beauty spots, lack of social distancing, increased disturbance of wildlife and vegetation, rubbish left behind, are all indicators that outdoor use is up but we are not caring for our outdoor spaces as we should be.

“Following Leave No Trace Guidelines ensures we are being collectively responsible in our use of outdoor spaces, protecting ourselves, our families, our fellow citizens and our incredible island.”

Leave No Trace Ireland’s guidelines are:

• Plan Ahead: Check weather, bring proper clothing and footwear, water and food. Park and walk responsibly.
• Expect Closures: Before leaving home, consider lack of usual facilities such as toilets, shops, cafes, restaurants.
• Stay Home or Local: Unwell? Don't go! Feeling well? Look for local trails, hidden gems, explore closer to home.
• Be Considerate: Maintain social distancing throughout the day. Keep group sizes small. There is plenty of space in the outdoors for everyone!
• Time and Place: Find those hidden gems, avoid peak times, avoid difficult routes. Adhere to HSE guidelines.
• Leave No Trace: Don't rely on or add to already overburdened services. Bring your own rubbish home.
• Be Dog-Responsible: Keep dogs under control. Mind out for young wildlife. Pick up and bring home dog waste.

Leave No Trace Ireland also reminds of its seven principles: prepare for spring weather conditions, stick to trails, dispose of waste properly, minimise fire impacts, leave what you find, keep a safe distance from wildlife, and be considerate of others.

If you are well, remain active through outdoor pursuits, but do your part and comply with the latest Government guidelines issued by the HSE in the Republic of Ireland and the HSC Public Health Agency in Northern Ireland. For more up to date information and advice about coronavirus (Covd-19), visit www2.hse.ie/coronavirus

For ideas on where to find inspiration for safe and responsible outdoor activities, see LeaveNoTraceIreland.org and share these ideas with friends and family on social media #LeaveNoTrace #WeLoveNature