Girona, with its picturesque landscapes and rich natural beauty, is a favourite destination for camping enthusiasts. Its mountains, rivers, and beaches provide the perfect setting to unwind and enjoy nature. However, it’s crucial that all of us who visit this beautiful region do so with respect and environmental awareness. In this article, we’ll share some best practices for caring for our environment, both outdoors and within campsites, promoting a sustainable and eco-friendly experience.

Choosing a sustainable campsite

Before embarking on your adventure, a great way to contribute to sustainability is by selecting campsites that promote eco-friendly practices. Many campsites in Girona are committed to sustainability, implementing recycling policies, using renewable energy, and minimising the use of single-use plastics. Research these initiatives and choose those that align with your environmental values. Additionally, look for campsites certified with environmental quality labels, here you can see our campsites with the Green Life seal, which ensures respectful management of the surroundings.

Respect Nature: « Leave no trace »

One of the golden rules of camping and outdoor activities is the « leave no trace » philosophy. This means that we should leave the places we visit as we found them, or even in better condition. Here are some practical tips:

• Do not litter: Bring a bag to collect all your waste and dispose of it in the appropriate bins. If there are no bins nearby, take your rubbish with you until you find a suitable place to dispose of it.
• Be mindful of organic waste: Even though some food scraps are biodegradable, it’s not advisable to leave them in nature as they can attract animals and alter local ecosystems.
• Respect flora and fauna: Avoid picking plants or flowers and keep a safe distance from animals. Remember, we are guests in their home.

Responsible water use

Water is a valuable resource and, in some campsites, it may be limited. Practising responsible water use is essential to ensure its availability for everyone. Here are some tips:

• Take short showers. Limit your time in the shower and turn off the tap while you soap up.
• Washing dishes and utensils. Use a basin to wash your dishes and utensils, and avoid doing so directly in rivers or lakes, as detergents can harm aquatic life.
• Reuse water. If possible, reuse cooking water for washing dishes or watering plants.

Energy use and emission reduction

Conscious energy use is another key aspect of reducing our environmental impact. Campsites can be places where a lot of energy is wasted if we are not careful. Consider the following:

• Efficient lighting. Use rechargeable torches and LED bulbs, which consume less energy and have a longer lifespan.
• Transportation. Opt for walking, cycling, or using public transport to get to and around the area. If you need to use a vehicle, share it with others to reduce carbon emissions.
• Electronics. Charge your devices responsibly and unplug them when not in use.

Sustainable outdoor cooking

Cooking outdoors is one of the most rewarding camping experiences. However, it’s important to do it in a way that minimizes environmental impact:

• Use portable stoves. Whenever possible, use portable stoves instead of open fires, which can cause wildfires and damage the soil.
• Clean fuels. If you use fuels for cooking, choose cleaner options such as propane or alcohol, which emit fewer pollutants.
• Local and sustainable foods. Support local farmers and producers by buying fresh, seasonal products, which are not only more sustainable but also delicious.

Participate in conservation activities

Many campsites and organisations in Girona offer conservation and environmental education activities. Participating in these activities is not only a great way to learn more about the natural environment but also contributes actively to its protection. From beach clean-ups to recycling workshops, every little effort counts.

Environmental education and awareness

Lastly, sharing your knowledge and experiences with others is a powerful tool for promoting sustainability. Talk to your fellow campers, friends, and family about the importance of caring for the environment. Share tips and sustainable practices, and encourage others to follow your lead. Environmental awareness spreads when more people are informed and committed to protecting our planet.

Enjoy and protect the campsites of Girona

The campsites of Girona offer us the opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy unforgettable moments outdoors. But with this opportunity comes the responsibility to preserve these beautiful landscapes for future generations. By following these best practices and adopting a sustainable approach, we can ensure that our camping activities have a positive impact on the environment. Remember, every action counts, and together we can make a big difference. Enjoy your stay in Girona and take care of our environment!