The 9th “Leave No Trace Hiking Fun” event was held today in the Nanshijiao Mountain area of Zhonghe District, New Taipei City. With the fine weather, participants explored the outdoors while promoting the concept of mountain conservation, minimizing the impact of recreational activities on nature.
Today’s event was guided by the Forestry Bureau of the Council of Agriculture, Executive Yuan, and co-organized by the Republic of China Hiking and Mountaineering Association. The hike took place in Hulongdi, Zhonghe, New Taipei, where the Rainbow Valley Band performed moving songs to give voice to the mountains. Interpreters from the Forestry Bureau provided on-site ecological explanations, contributing to environmental education.
Organizers stated that the “Odyssey Leave No Trace Hiking Fun” event, which promotes the Leave No Trace philosophy, has been held annually since 2008. It aims to show care for and give back to society, and invites everyone to join in, treat the environment kindly, and support the Leave No Trace movement.
The “Leave No Trace” movement originates from the U.S. concept of Leave No Trace (Leave No Trace). In the 1960s, mass tourism in the U.S. had a serious impact on the environment. Activities such as hiking, trekking, and camping gradually led to the damage and disappearance of surface vegetation, even eroding soil and affecting tree growth.
To prevent forced changes, reductions, and migrations in animal ecology and habitats, as well as the destruction of cultural and historical sites, initiators—starting in the 1980s—brought together U.S. government agencies, environmental education scholars, conservation groups, outdoor gear manufacturers and retailers, hiking and trekking organizations, and the general public to launch the “Leave No Trace” action concept.
Key aspects of promoting Leave No Trace in the mountains include thorough planning and preparation. Before entering natural environments, gather relevant information and enhance outdoor knowledge and skills to reduce risks and injuries.
Additionally, when walking on mountain-friendly trails, stay on established forest paths, avoid trampling vegetation to prevent soil erosion and surface loss, do not take shortcuts, and try to leave the lightest possible footprint.
Bring your own container for drinking water, produce no waste, and carry appropriate gear and food. Enjoy the forest’s phytoncides, but do not pick any plants, preserving the environment’s original appearance.
Have breakfast before participating in the activity, avoid cooking on the mountain, and reduce the environmental impact of fires. Bring binoculars for viewing, respect wildlife, allowing them to thrive and grow in the mountains. Keep trails clear and unobstructed, consider other participants, share the mountain environment with others, and respect the tranquility others may seek. 1051120
(Central News Agency)