Often overlooked in favor of more popular wildlife destinations, Eastern Europe harbors a secret world of mesmerizing biodiversity. From the Carpathian Mountains in Romania to the coastal ecosystems of Croatia, each country presents its own set of captivating wildlife experiences. Without further ado, this guide delves deeper into the fauna you can encounter in selected Eastern European countries, offering expert tips for memorable and responsible wildlife watching. Wildlife Watching in Romania, Eastern Europe - A Realm of Carnivores and Winged Wonders Where to Go Romania’s Carpathian Mountains are nothing short of a pilgrimage for those enchanted by the wilder side of nature - which makes it a wonderful wildlife-watching spot in Eastern Europe. Extending in an arc through the country, these mountains form one of Europe’s most extensive forested areas. The lower regions are a harmonious blend of meadows and deciduous forests, while the higher elevations embrace a world of pine forests and rocky outcrops. Additionally, the Danube Delta presents an aquatic tableau teeming with avian life, an absolute must-visit for bird watchers. View of Romania, Eastern Europe What to See Romania is particularly known for its substantial population of brown bears. These majestic creatures can be spotted lumbering through the dense Carpathian forests, sharing the territory with wolves and lynx. Wild boars rustle through the undergrowth, and if you’re incredibly fortunate, you may spot the agile chamois leaping from rock to rock (especially in the National Park Retezat). Photo by Cristian Grecu on Unsplash Birdwatchers should have their binoculars ready for golden eagles soaring overhead or the distinct hooting of the Ural owl. White storks wade gracefully in the wetlands, and colorful woodpeckers are often sighted clinging to tree trunks. The Danube Delta, meanwhile, is a different world altogether—a labyrinthine network of rivers, marshes, and lakes. Here, you can spot the striking Dalmatian pelican and its smaller cousin, the great white pelican, both iconic residents. But that’s not all - the Delta is also home to pygmy cormorants, glossy ibises, spoonbills, and the highly elusive Pallas’s gull. It is truly a bird watcher’s Eden, with over 320 species making their home in this ecological marvel. Danube Delta, Romania Expert Tip Late spring to early autumn are favorable seasons for wildlife watching in Romania. However, for a truly unique experience, consider guided wildlife tours with local experts who adhere to ethical practices. These tours often offer a chance to hear wolves howling at night, a haunting yet thrilling spectacle. Wildlife Watching in Poland, Eastern Europe - Where Primeval Forests Harbor Hidden Lives Where to Go The Białowieża Forest, straddling Poland and Belarus, is a living museum of Europe’s ecological past. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a complex mosaic of woodlands, meadows, and streams. Meanwhile, with their alpine environment, the Tatra Mountains offer a stark but equally rich contrast in biodiversity. What to See The European Bison, a symbol of national pride and conservation success, calls Białowieża Forest home. Yet, the forest is not just about this iconic bovine. Lynxes stealthily navigate the thickets while wolves roam in closely-knit packs. Red foxes and roe deer are often seen at dawn or dusk. The avian life is equally mesmerizing, with white-backed and three-toed woodpeckers drumming away and pygmy owls and black storks occasionally appearing. Bisons in Białowieża Forest, Poland, Eastern Europe Expert Tip Early morning and late afternoon are golden hours for wildlife watching. The animals are most active during these times. If you’re an avid birdwatcher, a pair of high-quality binoculars is essential to spot distant or camouflaged species. Wildlife Watching in Belarus, Eastern Europe - A Symphony of Wilderness and Water Where to Go The Polesie State Radioecological Reserve in Belarus provides a rare glimpse into Europe’s natural past. Often dubbed the “Lungs of Europe,” this reserve consists of vast marshlands, dense forests, and intricate waterways. The Belovezhskaya Pushcha National Park is another treasure trove of biodiversity. What to See While European mink, elusive and endangered, are a significant highlight, Belarus also offers sightings of robust elks and industrious beavers. Wild boars and roe deer roam the forests, contributing to the mammalian diversity. Among the feathered inhabitants, aquatic warblers fill the air with their songs, white-tailed eagles patrol the sky, and black grouse engage in spectacular displays during mating season. European Mink, Belarus Expert Tip Belarus is a paradise for bird watchers, particularly during the migratory seasons in spring and autumn. This is when you can observe an array of species using Belarus as a critical stopover. Understanding bird calls can significantly enhance the experience, so consider a guided audio tour if available. Wildlife Watching in Croatia, Eastern Europe - Where Land and Sea Unite in Biological Splendor Where to Go Croatia’s coast offers a marine spectacle along the Adriatic Sea. The Kornati National Park, a labyrinth of islands and crystal-clear waters is a scuba diver’s dream. For terrestrial wildlife, Plitvice Lakes National Park offers lush scenery and diverse habitats. Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia What to See Dolphins often frolic in the Adriatic waters, while Loggerhead turtles make their laborious journeys to nesting beaches. Scorpionfish and groupers can be found nestled among coral reefs or rocky underwater outcrops. On land, Croatia is a refuge for the European brown bear, the gray wolf, and the elusive and endangered Eurasian lynx. Griffon vultures can be spotted circling the skies, and peregrine falcons dive at astonishing speeds to catch their prey. Eurasian Lynx, Croatia Expert Tip Snorkeling and scuba diving are popular for observing Croatia’s marine life. Ensure you adhere to eco-guidelines without touching or disturbing the animals and corals. In national parks, maintain a respectful distance from any terrestrial animals you encounter. Conclusion Eastern Europe is an eclectic blend of landscapes, each offering a unique window into the region’s rich biodiversity. Immerse yourself in these untamed habitats and observe the marvelous creatures that inhabit them, and you’ll end up enriching your life and contributing to a greater awareness and appreciation of our planet’s natural heritage. So, grab your binoculars and cameras, lace up your hiking boots, grab your Wild Dirt mug , and embark on a wildlife-watching adventure that promises to leave you with unforgettable memories and awe-inspiring stories to tell. Remember, ethical wildlife watching is not just a practice but a responsibility. Your choices can contribute to the ongoing efforts to conserve these stunning landscapes and their inhabitants for future generations. Happy wildlife watching!

Romania’s Carpathian Mountains are a labyrinth of wonder and excitement, blending untouched wilderness with challenging terrains and adrenaline-pumping escapades. From scaling peaks shrouded in myth to venturing through dense forests teeming with wildlife, an unparalleled range of outdoor experiences awaits you. If you crave the untamed and the exhilarating, this extensive guide will serve as your treasure map to the Carpathian adventure of a lifetime. Unfurling the Map: Zones Within the Carpathian Mountains, Eastern Europe, Romania Before we delve into the details, it’s crucial to understand the regional divisions within the Carpathian Mountains in Eastern Europe, Romania: · Eastern Carpathians Mountains : These are the realms of rich biodiversity, including several national parks and natural reserves. · Southern Carpathians Mountains (Transylvanian Alps): Known for their dramatic landscapes, these mountains offer the most challenging treks and peaks, including Moldoveanu, Romania’s highest point. · Western Carpathians Mountains are less rugged but offer beautiful rolling landscapes, ideal for casual hikes and mountain biking. Hiking in the Carpathian Mountains Fagaras Mountains - The Moldoveanu Peak Overview: Often touted as Romania’s “roof,” the Moldoveanu Peak is the country’s highest elevation at 2,544 meters (8,346 feet). A challenging two-day trek to this summit is not just a physical endeavor but a spiritual journey that offers unparalleled views of the Romanian wilderness. View of Moldoveanu Peak, Romania Route: The hike usually begins at the charming town of Victoria and winds through the majestic Podragu Valley. Along the way, you’ll pass Podragu Lake, where many choose to set up camp. From there, you will ascend to the summit of Moldoveanu. The path varies from rugged scree slopes to meandering meadows filled with wildflowers. What to Expect: Your efforts will be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the Carpathians, extending as far as the eye can see. Flora and fauna abound, including patches of rare edelweiss flowers and sightings of chamois prancing along rocky ledges. The weather can be highly unpredictable - it’s not uncommon for summer treks to be interrupted by short-lived rainstorms or dramatic temperature fluctuations. Edelweiss Flower, Carpathian Mountains, Romania Tip: Always check the weather forecast before embarking on this expedition, and come prepared with suitable clothing for both cold and warm conditions. High-quality hiking boots with good grip are a must. Fagaras Mountains - Negoiu Peak Overview: Negoiu Peak, standing at 2,535 meters (8,317 feet), offers an equally captivating yet less crowded alternative to Moldoveanu. It provides a rare, 360-degree panoramic view of the entire Făgăraș range, a spectacle that leaves hikers speechless. View of Negoiu Peak, Romania Route: Depending on your starting point—Cabana Barcaciu or Porumbacu de Sus—the hike can take 5-7 hours to reach the summit. The terrain is a blend of dense spruce forests and exposed rocky outcroppings. What to Expect: The hike to Negoiu is an ornithologist’s paradise, with frequent sightings of golden eagles and falcons. If you’re lucky, you might even glimpse the elusive Carpathian wolf. Wildflower meadows and panoramic views punctuate the challenging ascent. Golden Eagle, Romania Tip: As tourists less frequent this area, informing someone of your hiking plans and expected return time is essential. Ensure your mobile phone is fully charged, and consider carrying a satellite phone for emergencies. Retezat National Park - Galesu Lake Trail Overview: The Galesu Lake Trail is a challenging yet deeply rewarding hike that culminates at one of Retezat National Park’s largest glacial lakes, enveloped by towering peaks. Galesu Lake, Romania Route: Starting at Cabana Buta, the trail rises steeply, cutting through dense forests before leveling out as you approach the lake. What to Expect: The park is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, so you can expect an array of biodiversity. Brown bears, lynxes, and over 80 species of birds inhabit these areas. The lake itself is a serene expanse of crystal-clear water, offering a tranquil respite from the demanding trek. Brown Bear, Romania Tip: Multi-day camping is an ideal way to experience this area fully - ensure you have a camping permit. Fishing in Galesu Lake also requires a separate license. Retezat National Park - Peaks Circuit Overview: The Peaks Circuit is an ambitious 4-5 day hiking circuit designed for experienced adventurers. It comprehensively explores Retezat National Park, featuring challenging terrains, unique biodiversity, and jaw-dropping panoramas. View of Retezat National Park, Romania Route: The circuit often begins and ends at Cabana Carnic, looping through well-known peaks like Papusa, Retezat, and Peleaga. What to Expect: This multi-day expedition takes you through spectacular landscapes: dense forests, alpine meadows, and rocky crags. Wildlife sightings may include wolves, chamois, and various bird species, some endemic to the region. Tip: This is a demanding trail that requires careful planning. Always carry a GPS, topographic map, and sufficient supplies. Booking accommodation or camping spots in advance is highly advised. Bucegi Mountains - Sphinx and Babele Overview: Suitable for families and casual hikers, the trail to the Sphinx and Babele offers scenic beauty and a glimpse into Romanian folklore and mythology, as these natural rock formations are steeped in legends. Sphinx and Babele, Romania Route: Starting from the Busteni Mountain Resort, a 2-3 hour hike takes you to these incredible natural formations. Though the trail is steep at times, it’s generally well-maintained. What to Expect: The journey offers stunning views of the Carpathian landscape, with deep valleys and towering peaks in the backdrop. Once you reach the Sphinx and Babele, their unusual shapes will capture your imagination. Tip: If hiking isn’t your forte or you’re traveling with young kids, a cable car from Busteni can whisk you up to these formations in no time. Bucegi Mountains - Omu Peak Overview: With an elevation of 2,505 meters (8,219 feet), Omu Peak is the tallest point in the Bucegi Mountains. It is home to Romania’s highest mountain chalet, offering hot meals and a cozy overnight stay. Omu Peak, Romania Route: The trek often starts from the picturesque town of Bran, famous for its Dracula Castle, and progresses through varied terrains, including alpine meadows and rock-strewn paths. What to Expect: The hike to Omu is a visual treat with scenic overlooks at various points and the possibility of encountering wildlife like marmots and birds of prey. Tip: The weather can be quite unpredictable, even in summer. Carrying warm layers and waterproof gear is recommended. Also, the chalet is popular among hikers, so consider booking your stay in advance if you plan to spend the night. Wildlife Wonders in the Carpathian Mountains Brown Bears Sign up for an ethical wildlife tour that takes you to hidden feeding spots in the dense forests of the Brașov region. Remember, patience is vital when it comes to wildlife spotting! Wolves and Lynxes Special nighttime tours offer a unique, although not guaranteed, chance to hear or even spot wolves and lynxes. A seasoned guide will take you through the forest trails where these elusive creatures are often sighted. Romanian Lynx Rare Bird Species The Carpathians are home to rare bird species like the Ural owl and Wallcreeper. Specific birdwatching tours are available, led by expert ornithologists. Ural Owl, Romania High-Octane Adventure Activities in the Carpathian Mountains Paragliding in the Piatra Craiului Mountains Feel the rush of air and the thrill of height as you soar like a bird, with professional paragliding instructors to guide you. Paragliding in Romania. Photo cred: Eugen Andronic Caving in the Apuseni Mountains For the intrepid explorer, caving offers an underground adventure. Explore the labyrinth of caves in the Apuseni Mountains, like the Scarisoara Cave, one of the largest ice caves in the world. White-Water Rafting in Buzau Valley Experience the torrents of the Buzau River with an exhilarating session of white-water rafting. This activity is best during the spring when the snowmelt increases water levels. Rock Climbing at Turda Gorge Scale craggy cliff faces and feel the triumph as you reach the summit. Beginners can learn the ropes with qualified instructors, while seasoned climbers can tackle more complex routes. Off-Roading in Harghita County Take on the rough terrains of Harghita in a 4x4 vehicle led by experienced drivers who know how to navigate the wild landscapes. In Summary Romania’s Carpathian Mountains offer a stunning array of opportunities for adventurers who want to step beyond the ordinary. From conquering rugged peaks to diving into the underground world, every activity promises an adrenaline rush and awe-inspiring natural beauty. Prepare your gear and Wild Dirt mug , ignite your wanderlust, and set your compass towards the Carpathians for the adventure of a lifetime.

Denser. Denser. Denser. Into the forest, I walked. Down. Down. Down. I descended into thought. Deeper. Deeper. Deeper. The Earth drew around. Darker. Darker. Darker. Where could I be found? Devil. Devil. Devil. Here I called out. Devine. Devine. Devine. I needed to believe in myself. Done. Done. Done. Out of the den, I walked. Dawn. Dawn. Dawn. From then I followed the sun. Ivana Cajina

4 Reasons Why You Should Go To An Ice Climbing Festival Why on Earth do you do something like ICE CLIMBING!? I have heard this exclamation or some form like it from friends and family over the years as I started to enter into the sport of ice climbing. Here are 4 reasons why you should learn ice climbing and why you should do it at an ice climbing festival. Mind and Body Improvements : Ice climbing is a great workout. When you are not able to ice climb using the urge to improve your abilities is a great goal to work towards for next season. I found that it also helped bring a sense of focus, calm, and mindfulness as I worked my way up a frozen waterfall. I find that at many festivals there are activities like Yoga For Ice Climbers. Safe and Fun: At a festival, I find that you really get to learn how to safely ice climb. Or make it as safe as you can while climbing up a frozen column of ice. Ice climbing has been a joy to learn. If you enjoy winter sports like snowshoeing, winter hikes, cross country skiing, or downhill and want to extend your rock climbing season they try ice climbing. Social : I love the social aspect of an ice climbing festival. In the morning as you are waiting for your class to begin you meet your climbing partners in the group. You climb with them all day and form bonds. Later in the evening a festival usually has evening guest speakers and movies. And many times after that are parties and social gatherings. Low Investment: Ice climbing is a specialized and equipment-heavy sport but at a festival, you can rent gear at an economical price. Many times your gear comes with the price of a class. No better way to try before you buy than going to a festival. If you are looking for a new winter sport then I suggest you take on the rewarding sport of ice climbing and do so at an ice climbing festival. They are held annually around the country from Colorado and Montana to New Hampshire and Michigan.

We have organized these 10 snacks into 4 main groups depending on your needs while on a hike: Eat On the Move Hot Liquids Quick Bites Stop and Prepare Eat On The Move: You can chew and snack on these snacks while moving. 1. Homemade Trail Mix 2. Homemade Oat bars Hot Liquids: It's important to stay hydrated and warm from the inside out when enjoying the winter months 3. Thermos of coffee with butterscotch hard candy dropped in to melt and add calories 4. Spruce or Pine Needle Teas. Great respiratory remedy with large amounts of shikimic acid., vitamin C, antioxidants, and minerals. These plants have been a food source by first generation peoples for centuries. Buy or forage yourself but remember always check with a local expert or consult a field guide. Know before you collect. Quick Bites: These are foods that might take a little more preparation than a handful of granola. 5. Packet of Tuna or Chicken Rollup 6. PB and J Sandwich (cold meat like summer sausage is not suggested, gets hard Stop and Prepare: These are hot meals that need a camp stove or are carried in a thermos and served to the crew. 7. Soup 8. Ramen 9. Instant Meal Packet 10. Savory Oatmeal

We are going to adapt the 10 essentials of hiking & camping for winter road travel: These should always be in your car to make emergencies easier. 1. Extra Food: Store enough food for the normal number of people you take in the car so they can be fed for one extra day. A good option to this is to toss in unused freeze-dried meals, instant oatmeal packets, or energy bars from a previous camping trip. You can use The Wild Dirt Camp Mug as a bowl to eat your oatmeal or camp meals. It's great to have extra food in the car for when you are hangry too. 2. Extra Water: Keep a jug of water and even a water filtration device like a LifeStraw or purification tablet in the car. Replenish the water so it doesn't get stale. Keeping the water in a larger gallon jug instance instead of multiple smaller water bottles can help keep the water from freezing but you might want to leave headspace in the container to allow for expansion if the water does freeze. 3. Shelter: This is an important Ten Essentials item and your car can act as that shelter but you could also bring a tarp too, encase you need to sleep outside the car. 4. Navigation: Keep a paper road map in your car and if you are going someplace like a National Park bring a paper map so you can find where you are if you lose signal. If you know how to use it bring a compass. If you don't know how to use a compass, learn. GPS and personal locators are also good if you have the money but a paper map is always more reliable. 5. Flashlight: Let there be light! A flashlight is a great item to have in the car encase you need to change the tire in the dark, walk down an empty road to the nearest gas station, or try and flag someone down. Get a headlamp and it will make your life easier. Especially when you need both hands to change that tire. 6. Knife: Doesn't have to be a giant Crocodile Dundie knife. A multitool is even better because the wrench and other tools can come in handy to repair something. 7. Fire Source: Matches are a good basic essential item. Get some that are waterproof and can strike on anything. Keep it separate but bring tinder to start a fire or an extra camp stove and/or lighter if you have the money. You can also use these along with a metal cup or pot to boil water for your extra water requirement. 8. Sun Protection: Easy one since you probably already have a set of sunglasses in the car but dont forget sunscreen or a hat to keep the sun off of you. Even in the winter, the sun can be intense. 9. Frist Aid: bring a little kit with you to stop bleeding, bandage yourself up, medication could be another item to add to that to make your trip more enjoyable. 10. Extra Clothes: Like food make sure you bring enough extra clothes for the average number of riders in the vehicle. In the winter you might want to include heavier boots, gloves, an extra jacket, or fleece blanket to keep you warm. Photo by Miroslav Škopek from Pexels Beyond these adapted 10 essentials I wanted to mention some specific winter car additions. such as windshield wiper fluid, Ice scraper/snowbrush, a small shovel, something to help you with traction such as cat litter which also helps with weighing down your tires, or a tread board that you can stick under your wheel and help you get more traction on ice and snow. Remember, regardless if its winter there are your normal vehicle emergency kit items you should keep with you such as jumper cables and/or battery powered car starter, pressure gauge, spare tire and tools, fix a flat, owners manual, Duct Tape, WD-40, road side assistance tools like flares and reflective triangle. Travel safe...

At Cape Flattery in the Makah Reservation on the Olympic Peninsula The team at The Wild Dirt and close friends had an amazing adventure around the entire Olympic Peninsula. We were lucky enough to be able to see the northwesternmost point of the contiguous United States known as Cape Flattery. It is a rugged and beautiful area with saturated greens, wind swept cliffs, and all manner of animal life. Cape Flattery is also home to the Makah Reservation. To visit the edge of the United States you needed to purchase a permit from the reservation. The process was easy and so the crew continued on to hike Cape Flattery. There were many visitors, hikers, families, and photographers present during our visit. The terrain was well marked and not too rough. Video By Dennis Fiore Music cover by Mike List Bowed Vibraphone Harmony I (Cookfield -James Lyon) – John Cage From 44 Harmonies from Apartment House 1776 @Makah Cultural and Research Center – https://makah.com/

One person's trash is another person's treasure. Get to know a little more about our new collection and learn about the greatness of this eco-friendly fiber. The textile and clothing industry has reached a turning point during the past few years that has only accelerated with the pandemic. And sustainability has become a crucial part of said change. Although many people believe sustainability is a (temporary) trend, it has actually become a necessity in the fashion world and all other industries in general. To address this shift, both brands and consumers have opted for new ways of producing and consuming, respectively. Businesses have started to adopt alternative materials that are eco-friendly, as well as making changes inside their production chain that benefit both the environment and the workers. Consumers, on the other hand, are beginning to understand the importance of their choices: they are comprehending that their actions have consequences and that they can actually make a change when shopping more consciously . At The Wild Dirt , we have committed to being part of this new age of sustainable fashion. As an outdoor apparel brand, we are determined to stay faithful to our surroundings by creating a line of products that is in equilibrium with both the people and the planet. We are working diligently to launch thoughtful items such as T-shirts, baseball hats, multifunctional poncho and blankets, and modular backpacks –all made with our recycled polyester –. But what is it that makes this fiber such a great option? About recycled polyester This fiber, also known as rRPET , is made from recycled plastic bottles . It’s considered a sustainable fiber because its production requires fewer resources than what's needed to produce virgin polyester. It actually saves up between 33% and 53% energy and, as a consequence, it generates less CO2 emissions. Build for adventure, used every day . Check out our new T-Shirts made with at least 5 recycled polyester bottles! There are two ways to recycle polyester: through mechanical recycling or through chemical recycling . In the first one, the plastic is melted to make new yarn, while the second one breaks down the plastic molecules to reform them into new yarn. Both are possible, yet they can involve certain disadvantages as well. Mechanical recycling can make the fiber lose its quality after it has been done a few times. And chemical recycling protects the quality , but it is quite expensive. From all fibers in the world, only a small proportion equals natural fibers , while the remaining are all synthetics. And around 70% of them are made from polyester or more specifically, polyethylene terephthalate , also known as PET. Contrary to what many people believe, PET production is mainly used to make fibers for the textile industry and only 30% is used to make bottles. Each year the industry uses about 104 million barrels of oil for PET production –that’s 70 million barrels just to produce the virgin polyester used in fabrics! Let’s talk benefits Those eye-opening numbers are the reason why using recycled bottles to make rPET has become so popular. It prevents the bottles from ending up in landfills or the oceans and therefore it also helps reduce the toxic emissions from incinerators. As well as it reduces the industry’s consumption of oil and contributes to lessening the extraction of natural gas from the Earth to make even more plastic. According to Fashion United , “five soda bottles yield enough fiber for one extra large T-shirt”. How shocking is that? Recycled polyester has become a greener, sustainable alternative and the opportunity –together with other recycled fibers– to lower our dependence on petroleum as a source of raw materials. This fiber can be used for a variety of products and blends perfectly with natural fabrics, such as cotton. Recycled polyester sums up everything we were looking for and allows us to stand by our beliefs. That is creating recreational equipment and outdoor apparel that not only protects the Earth but also respects it. We designed in nature and for nature. Using this fiber also lets us manufacture lightweight products, which is great for activities and travelling in the wild. In addition, the materials are not only light, but they can dry faster than other garments. Join us on this path through slow fashion and ecological lifestyle , and discover our latest collection. Remember it takes time to change the world, but “ one step at a time is all it takes to get you there” –Emily Dickinson.

The story of recycled polyester Recycled polyester fiber, also known as rRPET , is made from recycled plastic bottles . It’s considered a sustainable fiber because its production requires fewer resources than what's needed to produce virgin polyester. It actually saves up between 33% and 53% energy and, as a consequence, it generates less CO2 emissions. There are two ways to recycle polyester: through mechanical recycling or through chemical recycling . In the first one, the plastic is melted to make new yarn, while the second one breaks down the plastic molecules to reform them into new yarn. Both are possible, yet they can involve certain disadvantages as well. Mechanical recycling can make the fiber lose its quality after it has been done a few times. And chemical recycling protects the quality , but it is quite expensive. From all fibers in the world, only a small proportion equals natural fibers , while the remaining are all synthetics. And around 70% of them are made from polyester or more specifically, polyethylene terephthalate , also known as PET. Contrary to what many people believe, PET production is mainly used to make fibers for the textile industry and only 30% is used to make bottles. Each year the industry uses about 104 million barrels of oil for PET production –that’s 70 million barrels just to produce the virgin polyester used in fabrics!

Recycled polyester, a greener alternative for the free spirit The story of recycled polyester Recycled polyester fiber, also known as rRPET , is made from recycled plastic bottles . It’s considered a sustainable fiber because its production requires fewer resources than what's needed to produce virgin polyester. It actually saves up between 33% and 53% energy and, as a consequence, it generates less CO2 emissions. There are two ways to recycle polyester: through mechanical recycling or through chemical recycling . In the first one, the plastic is melted to make new yarn, while the second one breaks down the plastic molecules to reform them into new yarn. Both are possible, yet they can involve certain disadvantages as well. Mechanical recycling can make the fiber lose its quality after it has been done a few times. And chemical recycling protects the quality , but it is quite expensive. Photo by Monstera Production at Pixabay From all fibers in the world, only a small proportion equals natural fibers , while the remaining are all synthetics. And around 70% of them are made from polyester or more specifically, polyethylene terephthalate , also known as PET. Contrary to what many people believe, PET production is mainly used to make fibers for the textile industry and only 30% is used to make bottles. Each year the industry uses about 104 million barrels of oil for PET production – that’s 70 million barrels just to produce the virgin polyester used in fabrics! If you still want to know more about recycled polyester and Wild Dirt, you can read our previous article about 'SLOW FASHION' . As there's still so much to say about this, we are already working on our next article about recycled polyester, don't miss out! In our store you'll find recycled polyester clothing options!

Recycled polyester, a greener alternative for the free spirit A man’s trash is another man’s treasure. Get to know a little more about our new collection and learn about the greatness of this eco-friendly fiber. The textile and clothing industry has reached a turning point during the past few years that has only accelerated with the pandemic. And sustainability has become a crucial part of said change. Although many people believe sustainability is a (temporary) trend, it has actually become a necessity in the fashion world and all other industries in general. To address this shift, both brands and consumers have opted for new ways of producing and consuming, respectively. Businesses have started to adopt alternative materials that are eco-friendly, as well as making changes inside their production chain that benefit both the environment and the workers. Consumers, on the other hand, are beginning to understand the importance of their choices: they are comprehending that their actions have consequences and that they can actually make a change when shopping more consciously . At The Wild Dirt , we are committed to being part of this new age of sustainable fashion. As an outdoor apparel brand, we are determined to stay faithful to our surroundings by creating a line of products that is in equilibrium with both the people and the planet. We are busy working on launching products that are all made out of recycled polyester . Join us on this path through slow fashion and ecological lifestyle , and discover our latest collection. Remember it takes time to change the world, but “ one step at a time is all it takes to get you there” –Emily Dickinson.

Recycled polyester, a greener alternative for the free spirit A man’s trash is another man’s treasure. Get to know a little more about our textile and clothing collection and learn about the greatness of this eco-friendly fiber. The textile and clothing industry has reached a turning point during the past few years that has only accelerated with the pandemic. And sustainability has become a crucial part of said change. Although many people believe sustainability is a (temporary) trend, it has actually become a necessity in the fashion world and all other industries in general. To address this shift, both brands and consumers have opted for new ways of producing and consuming, respectively . Businesses have started to adopt alternative materials that are eco-friendly , as well as making changes inside their production chain that benefit both the environment and the workers . Consumers, on the other hand, are beginning to understand the importance of their choices: they are comprehending that their actions have consequences and that they can actually make a change when shopping more consciously . At Wild Dirt , we are committed to being part of this new age of sustainable fashion . As an outdoor apparel brand, we are determined to stay faithful to our surroundings by creating a line of products that is in equilibrium with both the people and the planet. We are busy working on launching products that are all made out of recycled polyester Join us on this path through slow fashion and ecological lifestyle , and discover our latest collection made of recycled polyester. Remember it takes time to change the world, but “ one step at a time is all it takes to get you there” –Emily Dickinson. We definitely talk more about our commitment with the slow fashion concept. Wait for part 2 ! Go see our store now!