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Mountain Clean Up (Respect the Mountains)

Respect the Mountains is a Dutch non-profit organization that contributes to the structural conservation of mountain areas, so that future generations can also enjoy the mountains. We do this by making the mountain visitor aware of the vulnerability of these areas, and of the simple things they can do to reduce the negative impact of tourism. Think for instance about the ‘7 ways to respect the mountains’, that inspire to be a more sustainable mountain tourist. We want to keep (y)our playground clean.
 
Mountain Cleanup
Mountain Cleanup

The Project

The Envirotrek Series take place in mountain areas in summer, after the snow has melted. After the winter season, the rubbish that has been left behind is clearly visible – especially plastics, cans and cigarette butts- and the Envirotrek Series is a practical solution for this problem.

What is an Envirotrek? An Envirotrek is clean up & adventure sport event where, aside from outdoor activities, the participants will give back to the environment. Both locals and mountain tourists will come together in the morning to clean up a ski slope or riverbed. At noon, they can enjoy a great BBQ and in the afternoon, they have the opportunity to try an adventure sport, like climbing, rafting or mountain biking. The event is suitable for both adults and children.

The primary goals of the Envirotrek are to offer a solution for the rubbish problem after the snow sports season and engage tourists to tackle this problem, to have the participants enjoy nature and show them how they can contribute themselves, and to focus the attention on the ‘7 ways to Respect the Mountains’.

For an impression, watch this movie: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zkAn2U-RcH0
 

Further Information

The Envirotrek Series is a positive and practical solution for the heavy impact the snow sports industry has on the mountains. During each Envirotrek, at least one hundred cleaning hours are made by the participants. The combination of a clean up in the morning and an adventurous activity in the afternoon, makes for a fun and meaningful day for the participants, and they are inspired to undertake action themselves. In 2010, three successful Envirotreks were organized in three European Mountain Areas. In 2011, Respect the Mountains would like to expand the concept and offer more people a wonderful and respectful day in the mountains!
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If you are an individual who loves the great outdoors and would like to support us, please click on the donate button below. Money received will help support the small EOCA team and its conservation work.
We are hugely grateful for the support of the European Outdoor Conservation Association, without whose support we could never have realised such an ambitious project.
Hugo Tagholm, Surfers Against Sewage