How to reduce your travelling footprint
We share some tips for reducing your impact on the natural environment so that future travellers can enjoy the same experiences and landscapes that we do.
RV owners are privileged to experience some of the more remote locations across the country, and as users of these spaces we all have a responsibility to look after them.
Here are a few simple ways to reduce your environmental footprint that will help to mitigate the impacts of climate change and preserve this natural beauty for future generations.
Grey water
There’s no hard and fast rules for grey water disposal. Some campsites will only allow self-contained vehicles, some parts of the country have banned dumping anywhere outside of designated points and will enforce those rules without mercy. In all cases, it’s a good idea to have a grey water capture system in place.
Most modern motorhomes will be equipped with a specific grey water tank designed to capture ‘grey’ water from washing up, showers, washing machines and such (this is different from black water, which comes from the toilet). This run-off tank can be emptied later at a specific grey water dumping point.
Unfortunately, some RVs will allow it to simply drip out onto whatever ground they’re sitting. The main thing to remember is that even though it may not be strictly outlawed, indiscriminate dumping can still be incredibly damaging to the environment. Even if it seems like an out of the way spot, the grey water will end up in the nearest waterway or leeching into groundwater — soap, grease and all.
It’s up to you to minimise the impact your grey water has on the land through storage and disposal, and also by reducing the amount of harsh substances that you use along the way. Use environmentally friendly soaps and detergents and use them sparingly. You can wipe excess grease from frying pans with paper towel or used napkins, reducing both the grease in the run-off and the amount of detergent needed.
Manage your waste
As you would at home, avoid single-use plastics and packaging which creates unnecessary waste. When storage space is at a premium, cutting down on packaging can also help to fit more in.
Recycling bins can be hard to come by in certain areas, so it’s good to set aside a spot in your car or RV for storing tins, bottles, cardboard and paper until the next one comes along.
Container deposit schemes are gaining traction as well, and there are deposit points around almost every state and territory where you can get 10c for every eligible container.
Buy local
Choosing to buy local produce and support a local economy eliminates the environmental cost of having to transport food over long distances and any emissions associated with having to keep it refrigerated for longer. Local farmer’s markets and farm gates are terrific places to stock up on fresh and seasonal local produce and you are helping to support local farmers.
Fuel efficiency
One of the most obvious ways you can cut-down your impact is by reducing your fuel consumption and thereby carbon emissions. This might mean slowing down a bit and covering shorter distances each day, or lightening your load and reducing the wind-drag of bulky items that may be strapped to the roof. It’s also important to keep your vehicle in efficient running order by having it regularly serviced as well as keeping your tyres properly inflated to reduce road drag.
Off-grid rig
By making sure your motorhome is as self-sufficient as possible, you can spend less time hooked up to mains power at holiday parks and more time in those far-out places. You can install solar panels, deep cycle or lithium batteries, efficient appliances and LED lights. Solar power will reduce your reliance on mains power and will also save you from having to fork out for campsite fees every night.
Think thrifty
If you break your favourite wine glass on the road, rather than heading to the nearest department store, check out local thrift and op shops. Buying second-hand can account for huge reductions in the emissions associated with the production of anew item and will prevent something from ending up in landfill. Otherwise, consider repairing or repurposing things whenever possible — a little creativity can make all the difference.
Walk the talk
As with camping, there are guidelines for ‘treading lightly’ so that you leave as little impact on the natural environment as possible:
- Always stay on the track
- Don’t cut corners or walk too many abreast or you will trample plants and possibly cause erosion
- Never cross fences or barriers
- Watch where you are walking to avoid stepping on plants and wherever possible walk on rocks and firm ground
- Keep noise to a minimum to avoid disturbing wildlife
- Don’t leave any litter — even organic waste, such as fruit, should be carried out
- Don’t wear heavy bushwalking boots around your campsite, lighter footwear will cause less damage
Travel without a trace
Little things often make a big impact. Make some small changes to everyday life next time you head out on a road trip, and you'll make a positive impact so we can all enjoy the best things about our great outdoors.