Walking is good not only for the heart but also for the environment. If you do this low-impact physical activity on trails, parks, or reserves, you’ll be able to maximize its health and environmental benefits.
Here are some of the environmental benefits of walking that will inspire you to walk more often.
Reduced carbon footprint
When you drive, your vehicle consumes much fuel—which is a nonrenewable resource—and produces toxic emissions that worsen air pollution. But when you walk, the only fuel you need to keep going is food and water. So when you’re in a situation when you’ll have to choose between driving and walking, go for the eco-friendlier choice! Aside from saving the environment, walking also allows you to save on fuel costs.
Better appreciation and respect for the environment
You’ll enjoy being one with nature, which makes you appreciate the beauty of your surroundings as you take your steps. What could be more relaxing and therapeutic than the fresh air, lush trees and grass, the birds chirping, and all the natural wonders?
Increased environmental awareness
Walking on trails teaches you about the impact of your actions on the environment, training you to become more disciplined and responsible for things as simple as disposing of your trash properly.
It also compels you to make sure that you minimize harm or damage you may cause to the environment. Here are the simple ways to achieve that while walking on trails:
- If you’re going to walk with a pet, check the rules and restrictions of the trail management, as pets might not be allowed to enter.
- Avoid wandering off the trail. If you stay on the trail, you won’t cause erosion and damage to plants.
- Take home your trash and don’t throw garbage anywhere on the trail.
- Respect all native wildlife in the trail. Don’t touch them. When you take pictures of animals, turn off the flash.
When you walk more often than you drive, you can save Mother Nature in your own simple ways.
