Sustainability

The Environmental Code (miljøvettreglene)

We look after what we care about. Together with POW Norway, DNT ung has drawn up seven simple environmental rules for a more leave-no-trace friluftsliv.

We look after what we care about. Together with POW Norway, DNT ung has drawn up seven simple environmental rules for a more leave-no-trace friluftsliv.

Did you know that:

  • Transport accounts for around a third of the total energy use in friluftsliv?
  • Norwegians lead the world in spending on sports and outdoor gear?
  • Friluftsliv is the leisure activity that uses the most energy, second only to holiday travel and visiting family and friends?

#1 Travel less, experience more

The shorter you travel, the more time you have for the trip itself. Find out which outdoor areas you have nearby, and make use of them. That makes it easier to plan and carry out trips, and the time you save on travel you can spend experiencing, enjoying and exploring nature. And when you do travel, travel in an environmentally friendly way.

#2 Invest in experiences, not gear

Outdoor gear does not have to be new to do its job. Buy used, borrow from friends, and look after the gear you have so it lasts year after year. Fill your gear cupboard with good memories, not fancy gear. Let the gear be a means to good experiences, but remember that the view does not get any better with this year’s model of the shell jacket. If you buy less, and buy used, you save both the environment and your wallet.

#3 Fix everything, always

Make gaffer tape, steel wire and a pocket knife permanent fixtures in your rucksack. Most things can be fixed, and spare parts are available for both gear and clothing. Get in touch with the manufacturer, and they may even help you entirely free of charge. Look after your jacket for long enough, and it is retro before you know it.

#4 Eat green

It is important to get enough nourishment on a trip. Eating green is good for both the environment and your health. Cut down your meat intake, and help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, free up agricultural land, limit deforestation and contribute to more animal-friendly meat production. Remember nature’s own larder when you are out on a trip — few things are better than self-caught fish on the fire.

#5 Car-sharing is good driving

If you have to travel far to get out on a trip, spend plenty of time planning it. Find the most environmentally friendly way to travel, whether that is car-sharing or public transport. If you are arranging a trip, make a plan for how people can travel together.

#6 Be prepared for unexpected rubbish

Keeping your wits about you on a trip matters, including when it comes to what you leave behind. For example, it takes around 450 years for a plastic bottle left outside to break down. Bring an extra bag, or keep a pocket in your rucksack just for rubbish. No one likes rubbish underfoot on skis, and a banana skin on the cycle track can ruin an otherwise good day. Let the only thing you leave behind be tracks in the snow.

#7 Show the way, be a climate role model

Be part of the climate solution, not the problem! Have respect for nature and the opportunities it gives us. Lead by example and show those around you how easy it is to make everyday life and outdoor life more environmentally friendly. Then future generations too will have the chance to enjoy the same nature, whether that is carving turns in deep powder snow or taking sunny Sunday walks.

Text and images: DNT

Next steps

Learn more