(Newswire.net — January 20, 2018) — Camping and hiking are two of the most popular ways to explore the great outdoors, to remove ourselves from modernity and development for a simpler way and steadier pace. It is important that the only imprint we leave be our footprints, to leave nature the way we found it, so that the generations after us can likewise enjoy the beauty and grandeur of Mother Earth. Here, we’ve rounded up 10 of our favorite camping supplies from companies with a commitment to leave the planet a better place.
Biodegradable wet wipes: The biggest myth about wet wipes is that they are flushable; most wet wipes are made almost entirely of plastic, which can take up to 200 years to break down after flushing or tossing, and create build-up in plumbing and sewage systems. Instead, look for biodegradable wet wipes, which begin to decompose after only 28 days, like these from Surviveware.
Campstove: Burning only wood, the BioLite CampStove 2’s fan creates a smokeless fire that can cook meals and boil water in minutes while turning its heat into usable electricity. Genius.
Tent: Many tents are constructed with PVC and VOCs, such as PBDEs and PFOAs, which make them lightweight and water-repellent. These compounds fill the air inside the tent in serious doses, so while sleeping in one of these tents, you are breathing in high amounts of strong chemicals, rather than fresh mountain air. Tents from Big Agnes and The Tent Lab are constructed without these harmful materials and compounds.
Sleeping bag: The MEC Equatorial Sleeping Bag was designed for both warm and cool nights, able to be flipped depending on how much insulation you need. Created with bluesign-approved sustainable materials, including recycled content, MEC is committed to reducing its environmental footprint.
Cookware: Titanium is believed to be the safest cookware material by some experts, as it does not contain any nickel and does not react with, or leach into, the food being cooked in it. With rounded bottoms to improve heat efficiency, this titanium cookware set from REI is an all-around winner.
Dinnerware & Utensils: This 1-person dining set from REI includes a plate, bowl, mug, knife, fork, and spoon. In addition to being reusable, it is completely recyclable.
Water bottle: The Nalgene water bottle is long-loved for its BPA free composition, and flexibility of use (store food in it!) If you prefer to stay away from plastic, Klean Kanteen’s water bottles are made of stainless steel, which has the added bonus of insulating your beverage.
Sunscreen: This SPF 50 from Honest is made without any chemicals, parabens, PABA, and was not tested on animals. Plus, it’s been hypoallergenic and dye and fragrance-free. Be kind to your skin with this product!
Insect Repellent: The harm DEET repellent causes to the environment is well known. Bubble & Bee’s insect repellent uses essential oils, which are certified organic and EPA-approved- and, most importantly, proven to keep the mosquitoes away.
Shoes: Oboz plants a tree for every shoe sold, and is committed to sustainability and clean energy, through carbon offsetting and wind power.
