Wild Dirt, a visionary in outdoor gear and apparel, goes beyond the conventional realms of product development. At the heart of their innovation lies a unique approach—drawing inspiration from nature's vibrant palette to create products that resonate with functionality and aesthetics. For Wild Dirt, color isn't just a visual aspect; it's an intricate part of their design philosophy. By harnessing the hues found abundantly in nature, the brand unveils a groundbreaking approach to product development, infusing its creations with the essence of the outdoors. The company's co-founder and head of design, Alexander Kwapis, brings forth a wealth of experience from the world of cosmetic luxury packaging, where color isn't merely a visual trait but an emotional and sensory experience. This grounding in luxury and a passion for sustainability fuels Wild Dirt's journey towards innovation. Nature, with its boundless hues spanning from the lush greens of forests to the fiery oranges of sunsets, is an endless source of inspiration. Wild Dirt employs an approach that delves deep into this spectrum, extracting colors and the emotions and sensations they evoke. Wild Dirt's product development process mirrors the diverse colors found in nature, from the vivid blues of serene lakes to the earthy browns of mountain landscapes. Each shade tells a story—the calming influence of green, the stimulating impact of yellow, or the stability exuded by earthy tones—infusing their products with more than just visual appeal. Moreover, Wild Dirt's integration of these natural hues is about more than aesthetics. It's about a connection—a way to bridge the gap between urban life and the great outdoors. By enveloping their products in nature's color palette, they offer users an immersive experience, fostering a deeper relationship with the natural world. This innovative approach is more than just using colors; it's a conscious effort to infuse nature's essence into every stitch, seam, and design detail. It's about echoing the rhythms and vibrancy of the environment within their products, mirroring the ever-changing beauty of the landscapes they're intended for. Wild Dirt's commitment to drawing from nature's color palette for product development isn't merely innovation—it's a manifesto. It's a testament to their dedication to sustainability, functionality, and, above all, their reverence for the inherent beauty found in the natural world. In every shade and hue lies a story. Wild Dirt invites users to explore, experience, and embrace the vivid colors of nature's tapestry through their products.

Listing the best South and Occidental European National Parks to travel by car or camper We usually plan a trip to Europe to see cities like Vienna and Berlin or to spend the summer in Tuscany, Italy. However, this continent hides some real gems of nature . So, while we might still consider spending our Christmas visiting the most famous flea markets, today we are going to hop in our car (or camper van) and explore the most incredible national parks in Western and Southern Europe . Travel by car or camper in South Europe Saxon Switzerland National Park, Germany S axon Switzerland is located on the Czech border and gives its name to one of Europe's top 10 national parks . Its landscape is entirely natural and wild, except for the park's only man-made feature: the Bastei Bridge. Built of sandstone, it is surrounded by characteristic rock formations that reach up to 305 metres above sea level. Did you know that it was formed by water erosion more than a million years ago? Imagen de Alfred Lichtenauer en Pixabay Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia The 16 Plitvice Lakes , some of the most impressive waterfalls and dolomites . This national park is a must on the list. A stroll along the surrounding promenades or a boat ride on Lake Kozjak will immerse you (figuratively) in the incredible aquamarine waters. Image by Dongchan Park from Pixabay Dolomiti Bellunesi National Park, Italy Look no further if you're looking for the perfect hideaway with the most breathtaking views. The Dolomites are a mountain range in northeastern Italy, part of the southern limestone Alps , stretching from the Adagio River to the Piave Valley. Here, you will find the most peaceful, remote and challenging routes to discover hidden corners where you can get lost among waterfalls and natural pools . Image by Fabio Disconzi from Pixabay Écrins National Park, France Glaciers and rivers are the protagonists, along with ski resorts in winter. However, this park in the Dauphiné Alps is the perfect destination for climbers and mountaineers looking for mountain resorts in the warmer months. This is why the Council of Europe has designated it as 'European Mountain Park'. Image by Florence D. from Pixabay Durmitor National Park, Montenegro Although Montenegro is known for its fusion of mountains and the Adriatic Sea, we have replaced its picturesque villages and coastline with the Dinaric Alps. The rugged nature of Durmitor National Park and the Tara River Canyon will open your eyes to a new view of the Balkan landscape . And you can enjoy it all year round, as hiking and rafting give way to snow-covered slopes when summer ends. Image by Alexander from Pixabay Triglav National Park, Slovenia Named after Slovenia's highest peak and national symbol: Mount Triglav. At 2864 metres, it is the only park in Slovakia to offer something for everyone , from hiking through green valleys and tranquil forests to skiing on the slopes of Kranjska Gora and Vogel or surfing in the waters of Lake Bohinj. Image by Michael Kleinsasser from Pixabay Ordesa National Park, Spain At the foot of the imposing Monte Perdido , there is a park for everyone. Not only is it the perfect place to slow down and enjoy Spain's wildlife, but it also has a mountain playground for the kids . A place not to be missed? The route takes you to the Cola de Caballo waterfall along a path that follows the course of the Arazas River. Image by Lisa Redfern from Pixabay Göreme National Park, Turkey If ever there was a magical place, this is it. "Fairy chimneys", cave towns and a steep, rocky valley . Göreme National Park in Cappadocia is one of Turkey's most iconic landscapes. Its natural heritage deserves much more than the UNESCO World Heritage designation it has received. Seeing its landscape illuminated by sunrise from a hot air balloon or walking through its rock-hewn houses and churches is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Image by Hans from Pixabay Timanfaya National Park, Canary Islands This national park captures and reflects the volcanic origin of the Canary Islands through landscapes with soils ranging from reddish to orange and black tones or geysers and toothless rocks. Its origin is the result of volcanic eruptions in the 18th and 19th centuries and is found on the island of Lanzarote. However, some areas are inaccessible to visitors due to the fragility of the ecosystem. Image by Enrique from Pixabay Gargano National Park, Italy We're going to repeat the country again, but we couldn't end the list any other way. Sea caves, white cliffs and turquoise waters. It is a landscape that contrasts with the others in this article, but it is magical nonetheless. This is the place for southerners and those looking for a European summer while still visiting natural gems . The Gargano National Park is located in the Puglia region of southern Italy. It is renowned for its varied landscape and the fusion of the green of the Umbra Forest and the blue of the Adriatic Sea. Enjoy hiking trails, scuba diving or swimming in its bays and caves . Image by Gianni Crestani from Pixabay Travelling through this European natural treasure has reminded us again of sustainability's vital importance . Visiting these national parks while respecting and preserving the environment exemplifies the perfect balance between satisfying our thirst for adventure and exploration and environmental responsibility. So, if you're gonna travel by car or camper in South Europe, remember to take sustainable products with you when you visit, which take care of the earth and leave no trace . Here's a preview of what you.'ll find in our store :

A guide to get back safe with no connection Photo by Photosnap at Pixabay It's autumn, the leaves are falling and the temperatures are dropping. It is the perfect setting to lose yourself in the trees and enjoy an autumnal retreat. But 'Folklore' stops playing, and suddenly 'lost in the trees' takes on its literal meaning . First of all, don't panic. It may sound cliché, but it is essential in a situation like this. Also, don't walk long distances if you're unsure where you're going. Even if your battery is dead, there are plenty of clues that nature gives us to help us find our way when we get lost. Get a compass It may sound like an ancient and somewhat mystical accessory. Still, it can be handy for orientation , as it clearly marks north and south. Follow the sun With the sun as your reference point, you have several options: - Find the sun . The sun rises in the east and sets in the west. So if it is in the morning, your shadow will be cast to the west, and if it is in the afternoon, to the east. - Are you wearing an analogue watch ? If so, use it. Point the hour hand at the sun. The centre between the hour hand and 12 o'clock on your watch indicates south in the northern hemisphere. Moss on trees Moss often grows on the north side of trees because that is where the sunlight is least likely to reach. So, if you find it, you can use it as a clue as to where the north side is . Walk in the opposite direction to where you found it. Using the sea If you have the sea nearby, try to find a landmark that you can use as a guide and follow it. Walk at night? When it gets dark, look at the stars. Look for the North Star; it will help you identify the North. Although these tips can be beneficial, remember that it is always a good idea to tell someone before you go on an adventure. Send your location and plans before you leave , even if you think you know the route. Remember: don't panic if you got lost in nature. Breathe. “All the roads leed to Rome”. If you're planning to go on adventure, visit our store , you'll find some pretty useful stuff!

A natural spectacle Where the sea can be lava or clouds, the Canary Islands have landscapes that can only be seen by visiting. Rocky, rugged pine forests, flat islands, and other more imposing ones at the foot of Mount Teide. Although they are all of volcanic origin, each hides a different landscape. If you want to visit them, you must choose between the eight or organize a route to explore them all. But here’s a secret: from each of them, you can see the skyline of other islands in the archipelago. Would you recognize them? Here are a few tips to help you do that on your next trip. Seeing the silhouette of another island from a neighboring one is part of the magic of the Canary Islands. Still, sometimes we don't find them, or it can be difficult to tell which one it is. This depends on the distance between them and the weather conditions. From Tenerife From the largest island, it is possible to see La Gomera, El Hierro and La Palma. This is unsurprising, as they are part of its province and are therefore the closest. However, weather permitting, you can see the skyline of Aldea de San Nicolas, a municipality in the western part of Gran Canaria . From Gran Canaria Fuerteventura is the closest to the island, so it can be seen often. However, the best views are from Mount Teide. Located east of Tenerife , its volcano (and the highest peak in Spain) can be seen from the island’s highest points or places with panoramic views to the west. If you want a recommendation, watch the sunset at Pico de las Nieves . The views are well worth the zigzagging roads that lead up to it. From Lanzarote This is the easternmost island in the archipelago, so you can only see the silhouette of Fuerteventura and a few nearby islands, such as Lobos. Photo by Quique at Pixabay From Fuerteventura You can only see Lanzarote and a few small islands like its neighbour. However, you can make the most of your trip and spend a day on Lobos: crystal clear waters, natural pools and rocky landscapes. From La Gomera It is small, green and the ideal place to escape it all. Even more so when its location offers views of Tenerife, La Palma and El Hierro. Photo by Ravelinerin at Pixabay From La Palma La Palma is a hypnotic landscape in itself: the mixture of the green of its mountains and the blue of its sea is almost like a hand-painted picture. But when the neighbouring islands of Tenerife, La Gomera and El Hierro come into view, the panorama becomes an even more impressive spectacle (if possible). El Hierro La Gomera and La Palma are among your insurances. If you're lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the largest island, Tenerife. If you wait until nightfall, the island's low light pollution will give you a starry sky worthy of a Van Gogh painting. La Graciosa This is the smallest island of the archipelago. Although you can see several uninhabited islets, such as Montaña Clara or Roque del Este and Roque del Oeste, as it lies to the north of the island, the only island you can see is Lanzarote. Photo by Lapping at Pixabay This is the magic that enchants locals and visitors alike. Its spectacular nature goes beyond its landscape and geographical diversity to the interweaving of the silhouettes of the islands that offer unique perspectives of the Canary Archipelago. You may not visit The Canary Islands today but, have you already visited our store ?

How does Wild Dirt contribute to this statement? 1. We use T-shirt suppliers that provide fair wages for jobs that lift up workers from poverty and empower their community . Our shirts are better because we start with better pay for those that make them. 2. Our shirts are created in The United States and Haiti with fair wages . Photo by cottonbro 3. Our T-shrirt factory has passed the rigorous screening and as a Fair Trade member lives by the nine principles of the Federation . 4. On top of providing dignified employment and fair wages , our shirts are made using sustainable fabrics in every shirt while reducing components such as sewn-on shirt tags . Photo by Ksenia Chernava from Pexels For us, it is as important to keep our nature with no trace as to work with companies that share our values and commitments . We'll keep on working with brands and companies who are taking every bit of their efforts to improve our planet, our nature and our environment . We live in a country full of hard-working, generous and inspiring people who love what they do. To love and to respect every single one of them is also part of our roles as simply human beings . In terms of work, one of the easiest ways to show respect to an employee is to pay what their work is worth no matter where they come from, no matter where they live. Do you wanna see some of our top t-shirts? You'll find more in our store

Sun, beach and good weather. I bet that if you ask us about the Canary Islands, these characteristics inevitably come to mind. And they are indeed a paradise. However, the Canary Archipelago is made up of 8 islands, each one of them with different geography , landscapes and reliefs . For the people from the Canary Islands , their lands and weather conditions , beyond being a tourist attraction of natural and singular beauty , are a r esource of infinite riches, from food with an incomparable flavor to sustainable energies . But, among the most mountainous and greenest areas, we find a resource that we are sure you have never heard of: one of the purest waters in the world. For years, an ingenious process has been carried out to obtain water from the mist, fog and ambient humidity in the highest areas of the islands. Through stainless steel collectors, it captures the humidity-laden clouds that brush the summits due to the trade winds. In them, the water is filtered and disinfected with ozone to be suitable for human consumption, food processing and agricultural irrigation, all without using chemicals or additives. Although other brands have emerged subsequently, Agua Alisios was the first to be bottled in the world, collected at 1600 meters above sea level in the ravines of Tejeda (Gran Canaria), thus positioning itself among the ten best luxury waters. Photo by Valentinamariolli at Pixabay. Tejeda - Gran Canaria This method makes it possible to obtain drinking water innovatively and sustainably . It has also made it one of the waters with the least bicarbonates in the world, ideal for people with kidney problems, preparing infant food and complementing low-sodium diets . In addition, as it does not contribute flavor, it also becomes desirable for mixed drinks and beer brewing. Its process is an ecological proposal: It does not need any energy to work. It does not generate waste. Its environmental footprint is minimal. Have you tried one of the purest waters in the world yet? Don't miss out our store ! We've got plenty of gear seeking new adventures:

The biggest ride ever! It's true that cities are increasingly accommodating to those who pedal between buildings on two wheels. More than 30 cities and towns have been honoured on The League of American Bicyclists ' Bike Friendly Community (BFC) rankings for their work to improve cycling . However, there's nothing quite like a trip to the mountains and the adrenaline rush of uphill and downhill climbs overlooking lakes and scenery that you don't usually find among houses and shops. Photo by Si_kor at Pixabay Although everyone has their own opinion and the rankings may vary as much as there are tastes, we leave you with a small list of the best routes and places for mountain bikers of all levels in the United States. List of the best routes and places for mountain bikers Park City, Utah For a family trip . It may not be one of the most technical trails , but it takes the crown when it comes to comfort. You hardly have to worry about a thing with trails around every corner, where to eat and sleep... Everything is accessible practically in town. Take the bus to the Silver Lake Lodge at Deer Valley Resort, ride the Mid-Mountain trail through Park City Mountain and finish at Canyons Village. Bend, Oregon Bend offers more than 500 miles of single-track trails thanks to the Central Oregon Trail Alliance . The classic is for everyone: Phil's Trail, family-friendly terrain for families and first-time off-roaders. However, as you'd expect from their extensive catalogue, there are also some of the loudest trails for adrenaline junkies, such as Pine Marten . Tahoe City, California The scenery will be different whether you visit in the winter or summer season, but before it becomes the backdrop for sports like skiing, the Tahoe Rim Trail welcomes you to a 165-mile scenic landscape surrounded by surrounding mountains . Big climbs, fast downhills, slow-moving esplanades and lake views. It's a family-friendly place where different sports coexist, from backpackers to horseback riders and mountain bikers . Beware, not all areas are suitable for two-wheelers! Photo by AlwaysWanderlust at Pixabay Sedona, Arizona With red rock and sandstone landscapes , Sedona is the perfect place to ride a bike. It has trails from Aerie A Cockscomb Trail for beginners to Hiline or Hangover for experts. In addition, the fantastic range of tracks is thanks to the work of the Verde Valley Cyclists Coalition , which helps to maintain trails and build new ones. Photo by WindowsObserver at Pixabay Pisgah National Forest, North Carolina The Squirrel Gap leaves the Bradley Creek Trail at a manageable level up to the old Mullinax house. However, the trail becomes a side slope from here, which continues through the upper hardwood forests. This option has the most rugged and imposing mountain scenery surrounding the cycle trails . Photo by Waylin at Pixabay Kingdom Trails , Vermont The Kingdom Trails offers over 100 miles of quality trails for all skill levels. The longest? The Lamoille Valley Rail Trail. It follows the Lamoille River and passes through Vermont's Green Mountain Range. Recommendation: Visit in autumn. The colors of the scenery will make for an unforgettable ride. Crested Butte, Colorado It offers more than 700 miles of trails, most suitable for summer hiking . Here, for the more advanced hikers, Route 401 is a highlight . Alpine and floral views, challenging climbs and exhilarating descents. The trail takes you above the tree line and contours the mountains of the East River Valley. Photo by 1778011 at Pixabay Shenandoah Valley, Virginia It's not one of the best-known, but once you do it, you will remember it. It welcomes you with a five-mile climb up to Torry Ridge, and then it's another seven miles of descent along a boulder-strewn spine. Between the essentials, you must carry bravado and suspension. Photo by RadfordWine at Pixabay Hurricane, Utah A 1,500-foot drop, tight riding, punchy uphill climbs and rocky flats where precision is a must. The south rim of the 8-mile Gooseberry Mesa South Rim trail is only for some, we could have guessed. And it has every reason to be the setting for the famous Red Bull Rampage competition. Moab , Utah We've reached number 1. This destination has been part of mountain biking culture almost since its inception. Although you can find some beginner-friendly, the most technical and challenging fluids are found in Moab . Not forgetting The Whole Enchilada, dare you try the Slickrock Bike Trail? 9.6 miles of highly technical riding, which many consider to be the ultimate mountain biking experience. Photo by Mtbevents17 at Pixabay We hope you find this list of the best routes and places for mountain bikers useful and you share with bike & nature lovers. You can make a checklist of them to see where you've been or not. We all have to try them once in a lifetime. If you are considering one of this trails, we leave you down here a list of our products that might help you through this adventures:

We are here to exchange wisdom and enjoy our wilderness surroundings with zero-waste behaviour Dennis Fiore and I, Alexander Kwapis, first crossed paths as kids at our Boy Scouts of America Order of the Arrow Ordeal campout, of course. Since then, we have embarked on a never-ending journey of solo and group wilderness escapades and learning , all the way to creating our own company. In a world where we are increasingly aware of environmental challenges, a sustainable lifestyle has become the quest of many. Both as a team and individually, we believe that knowledge is the basis for positive change. However, when you are a self-learner (which we have been), you often get lost in a sea of tools and information, not knowing where to start. From our own experience, we know that training and knowledge are limited and it is easy to get bogged down in the rules of the outdoors and its preservation . Some things might be hard but we will always enjoy our wilderness with zero-waste behavior. From desert first aid, to Leave No Trace trainer, PADI certification and Okpik winter camp . We are ongoing students in the desert ourselves and have taken courses and credentials on a variety of topics. Wild Dirt is a project whose purpose is to impart wisdom about the ethics and essential skills required to develop in the natural environment based on the experience we have accumulated and continue to acquire over the years. Our goal is clear: to educate, inspire and provide people with the tools they need to connect with their environment in a meaningful and sustainable way through training, media and stories that inform and guide those seeking to better understand their connection to the natural milieu and reduce their footprint. Beyond that, our commitment doesn't stop at education but transcends into creating the tools and equipment necessary to enjoy nature. We raise the flag for fashion and responsibility to go hand in hand, creating eco-friendly (and durable) products using sustainable materials and processes (and we obviously make it a point to pay fair wages to our workers and partner factories). We pride ourselves on offering durable products that minimise their environmental impact without sacrificing quality or performance! At Wild Dirt , our goal is (and will always be) to continuously improve ourselves and uplift our community daily. For it, we require the partnership, financial support, and promotion of other outdoor non-profit organisations to achieve our objectives. However, as a company, we participate in One Percent for the Planet , in which we are committed to donating at least 1% of annual sales directly to environmental organisations. This is why the commitment of all the agents involved in enjoying our surroundings in a respectful way over the long term is essential. Join us? Enjoy our wilderness with zero-waste behavior!

Listing products from the store that can be useful. S u n d a y F u n d a y b y t h e l a k e Days are still a bit long, and balmy temperatures invite you to spend some time outside. This time, we prefer to shy away from getting up early to grab a spot on the beach. Vacations also provide the perfect opportunity to indulge in thrilling adventure sports , embark on a road trip , or unwind by the lakeside . Jenny Lake's "to die for" views in Grand Teton National Park , the pristine turquoise waters of Lake Huron , or captivating sunsets at Lake George . Choosing where to go on your retreat is as important as knowing what to bring , and recognizing it can occasionally be the most tedious part. We want to help you with an (eco-conscious) list of the essentials for your freshwater Sunday escape . List of the essentials for your freshwater escape A Basecamp Mug There's nothing like coffee (or tea) amidst the mountains . Introducing our new Basecamp Mugs : They are reusable, charming, and ideal for savoring your fav drink wherever your adventures take you . SPF 50 (Reef-Safe) Taking care of our skin from the sun is essential, but have you considered the impact on our planet? Ensure they’re eco-friendly and keep it on your travel kit , whether the sun is shining brightly or not. Opt for chemical-free options, they are the most wildlife and reef-friendly . Our Topo Map Flat Brim Snapback Cap Elevate your glam with our Topo Map Flat Brim Snapback cap , made from recycled polyester. Sustainability has moved away from the concept of "trend" and has become a necessary attitude adopted by both consumers and producers in many industries. That's why we aim to be fashionable by choosing products that promote the preservation of our environment .brim Waste bag We’ve all been there; we usually remember it when we are already at our destination. But now that we've included it in our Top 5, you will remember it. Commit to the Leave No Trace principle and carry a waste bag to ensure you only leave behind cherished moments. Our Soft Performance T-Shirt Our Soft Performance T-Shirt offers unparalleled comfort and sustainable style. It is not only the equivalent of five recycled bottles , but it's also soft enough to accompany you on your worldwide adventurous journeys. Our Everyday Blanket We consider it our Swiss Army Knife . Its features make it a must-have for our everyday life. It's a multi-functional , water-resistant , recycled polyester , puffy, portable blanket . Its snaps allow you to wear it as a cape while doing camp chores or fold it up and use it as a blanket on your lap. Once you’ve taken notes of our compilation, make sure you fully savor your accompanied or solo Sunday by the lake. Fetch your camera and kit, then play a curated road trip playlist while you get there. After all, we think we all just wanna have fun ! Here are some of the products we've mentioned above. If you want to see more go to our s tore now!

The respect for their own resources, the conservation of ecosystems and biosphere, and the sensitivity and rooted traditions of their cultures are the key to their sustainable development. The Canary Islands and Hawaii might seem to be worlds apart but they do actually have so much in common. Both archipelagos are composed of a large group of islands and islets that were formed by volcanic activity centuries ago. Some of those volcanoes are (commonly said) “asleep”, but some others are still active (which means they can erupt anytime and start the birth of new land). Otherwise, scientific improvement has helped islanders to know in advance when a volcano might erupt and which and where they can cause damage (or not). The Canary Islands Home of the trade winds, the world’s best climate and unique biodiversity. This idyllic archipelago belongs to Spain, Europe. It is formed by 8 different islands and numerous islets located close to Morocco, West Africa. Although every bit of them was created from magma and strong rock erosion, every island has a completely different terrain. As a matter of fact, The Canary Islands are famously known for having what they call “microclimate” in every island. This means that you can have a heat wave and a torrential rain the same day on the same island (and just go with it). The two main islands are Gran Canaria and Tenerife , which are also the most populated. They mainly work in tourism, agriculture and ranching. They have a strong native culture . Hawaii Home of world-class beaches, unique native culture and natural beauty This idyllic archipelago belongs to the United States of America. It is formed by 6 different islands and numerous islets located close to the US West Coast. Created from volcanoes, full of vast green fields and some of the largest waves in the world. They have a strong (and also pretty famous) native culture. The most populated island is Oahu , home of Honolulu , the State’s capital city. They mainly work in tourism, agriculture and floriculture . See now? 8123 miles apart but similar in more than one way If you have ever had the chance to read “The little prince” you’ll know how important and necessary it is to look after what surrounds us. Biosphere conservation, resources efficiency and people’s wellbeing are the Achilles’ heel for both archipelagos . As many parents have repeatedly said to their children throughout life: “If you take care of things, they’ll last forever” and that’s exactly what the Canary Islands and Hawaii archipelagos stand for. Unfortunately, when something like a wildfire burns down half of an island its people not only cry for what they are painfully experiencing, but they truly feel the desperation of losing part of their past and the uncertainty of what the future holds for them and for the lands they have grown up in. Since their birth, their life always goes indirectly around the protection and preservation of the islands . In our next article, we will show you what are the preventive actions that these archipelagos use to develop a sustainable living for their environment and how these actions can help to avoid big disaster impacts. Take a look at our store full of sustainable products!

The respect for their own resources, the conservation of ecosystems and biosphere, and the sensitivity and rooted traditions of their cultures are the key to their sustainable development. The Canary Islands and Hawaii might seem to be worlds apart but they do actually have so much in common. Sadly, in this month the islands of Tenerife (The Canary Islands) and Maui (Lahaina, Hawaii) have gone through two devastating wildfires that not only have reduced to ashes their biosphere but also have taken many lives with them. Down here there’s a table with the latest collected data from both wildfires : Tenerife ​ Maui ​ Affected area 15.000ha Affected area 1.294ha Deaths 0 Deaths 115 Disappeared citizens 0 Disappeared citizens 850 Displaced citizens 26.000 Displaced citizens 11.000 Information source: RTVC Information source: Reuters Even though wildfires can be caused by a person's carelessness or by unknown circumstances, both archipelagos invest big amounts of their budgets into preserving , protecting and cleaning their biosphere. A tremendous list of actions are taken by the citizens and the authorities to help as much as they can to prevent these kinds of disasters. If you want to know more about them, keep reading! If every single one of us is able to chip in, we can create something big, something honest and respectful of the world we live in. Wildfire prevention actions taken in The Canary Islands : 1. Mostly in summer, as temperatures rise to over 30ºC, campfires , fireworks, smoking or any work that might have tools using fuel or that can cause a spark of fire in the woods are totally banned. People can get fined or even get into prison if damages are serious. Photo by Eartha at Pixabay 2. There is a specific type of pine tree that only exists in The Canary Islands which is known for having a highly fire resistant bark. However, it can generate a huge amount of “pinocha” , which is a pine needle that covers the floor around the pine tree and it is curiously highly flammable . Pinocha is, indeed, one of the reasons why wildfire runs faster in the Canarian woods. Throughout the year, authorities work on several actions to clean as much pinocha as they can from the woods before high temperatures start. 3. Another really important action that is taken in The Canary Islands to prevent wildfires is that everybody, especially people with farms or gardens, must keep their property surroundings clean from dry leaves or dry plants as they can be really flammable in case of fire. This action has actually saved many houses from being burned down when wildfires have spread. 4. Last but not least, in case of wildfire, people with pools or water tanks must open them and let firefighters helicopters and water tank trucks supply them freely. The government, once the wildfire is extinguished, will replenish every single one of them without any cost to the owners. Actions taken in Hawaii to prevent wildfires: 1. The Government has recommended persistently to tackle the grasses as they serve as fuel to make fire run faster, especially, if they are dry. In fact, grazing has also been mentioned as a tool to clean those dry areas that can be flammable. Photo by Shameersrk at Pixabay 2. Another important recommendation is to keep houses surrounded by plants that can create a wet vegetation environment and will help to prevent fire from running into the house . Likewise, it is important to keep rooftops and gardens clean from campfire embers and to use fire-resistant materials in the house surroundings. 3. It is also recommended to avoid playing with matches or fireworks outdoors. 4. There are community wildfire protection plans developed in different areas of the archipelago where vegetation and the environment are prone to grow wildfires. This is a really positive and educative action that encourages neighbors to understand their environment and how they can be useful (without the need of putting their lives at risk) in case of wildfire. Could you imagine how big the impact of a wildfire can get if these archipelagos didn’t already work on prevention actions ? What an example of understanding that every step we take will have a consequence over our future! The Canary Islands and Hawaii archipelagos must be proud of thinking sustainably with such ease. Maybe it’s because they have no other options if they want to preserve the lands they live on, and, If it continues to improve, their children too. However, the point is that whatever their motivation, they’re still doing something good to honor their regions. Sometimes, a simple piece of paper, a soda can or a tiny piece of crystal laying on the floor can cause a huge natural disaster without even noticing it. After reading this article we can only remind you that there’s a lesson to learn anywhere we go and that’s why we do really support the Leave No Trace actions. Just to help you understand a bit more how one second of your life can change someone else’s life. Take a look at our store full of sustainable products!

According to Tobias Schultz , the average surfer produces around 10 tonnes of CO2 per year just by surfing, making their carbon footprint 50% higher than that of the average citizen. Although unsustainable fishing is known to be one of the main problems facing marine life , the marine ecosystem is affected by many other factors. Eighty percent of the waste that ends up in the ocean is plastic. According to National Geographic , an average of 8 tonnes of plastic waste enters the ocean every year. Surfing, kitesurfing and kayaking (among other water sports) have their own impact on the marine ecosystem . It is important to be aware of your impact and how you can reduce it. Watersports and how they affect the marine ecosystem Photo by JacksonDavid at Pixabay Boating The main environmental impacts associated with boating include: noise pollution , which affects marine life by disrupting the acoustic communication; chemical pollution ; c oastal erosion ; and degradation of flora . Although there is an advantage in generating oxygen content in the water through the movement of their propellers, it is essential to try to reduce the level of impact. Photo by Sabinevanerp at Pixabay Unsustainable fishing According to Global Fishing Watch , around 91-93 million tonnes of fish are caught worldwide each year. They also note that " the proportion of unsustainable fishing has also increased dramatically: from 10% in 1974 to 33% in 2015”. Photo by Antonio_Cansino at Pixabay Surfing The production of a 3kg polyester surfboard generates 5kg of additional waste material, almost double the weight of the board. The main impact on the marine ecosystem is caused by plastics and microplastics, as well as the pollution involved in the production of the material used in water sports. Many are made from petroleum derivatives such as polyester and polystyrene. The material degrades with salinity and erosion , contaminating the marine ecosystem and becoming microplastics ingested by marine life. Photo by BKD at Pixabay Snorkelling Despite the fact that this sport is virtually harmless to our oceans, the growth of snorkeling has recently led to a new interest in natural areas that were previously little frequented . Photo by Catsdhika at Pixabay Scuba diving Many divers are concerned about the protection of marine ecosystems and the impact of humans on them. However, they can also cause damage to the marine habitat. Poor buoyancy control or finning control can have a direct impact on the dive site, destroying hundreds of years of coral growth in some species . Evidence of vandalism or deliberate destruction has even been found. Photo by PattiRey at Pixabay Kayaking Fishing lines, bait or hooks are just some of the debris commonly found after practicing this sport. Another problem is the spread of invasive species, which completely alter marine ecosystems. Raising awareness and educating not only water sports enthusiasts, but also the entire chain and stakeholders involved, is more important than ever. T he circular economy has a fundamental role to play in preserving the marine ecosystem . Some of the steps to be taken could be: Extending the useful life of sports equipment Recycle the material Using organic and environmentally friendly materials in the manufacturing process. Travel less polluting Everyone can also do their bit : Caring for ecosystems and picking up litter Avoid restricted areas or protected areas Not leaving litter behind Avoid plastic bags that blow away and end up in the water Don’t touch wildlife Do not take anything from the site: no sand, rocks, fish or plants. Do not feed the animals, you may change their habits and routines. These steps are as simple to write as to be done. Watersports and how they affect the marine ecosystem is more than just another "there's no planet B" article. It is about commitment, passion and respect of what surround us. Sneak-peek of what you'll find at our store...