The European Ramblers Association (ERA) has a multifaceted mission that revolves around promoting walking and hiking activities while simultaneously ensuring environmental care. Here’s a breakdown of how ERA’s mission aligns with these goals:
- Promotion of walking and hiking activities:
- ERA advocates for walking and hiking as recreational activities across Europe. By doing so, it encourages people to engage in physical activity, explore nature, and appreciate the cultural and natural heritage of the continent.
- The association fosters networking and cooperation among its member organizations, facilitating the exchange of knowledge and best practices related to walking and hiking activities. This collaborative approach helps in promoting these activities on a broader scale.
- ERA plays an active role in creating and marking European long-distance paths, as well as other international paths. These designated routes provide safe and well-maintained trails for walkers and hikers, thereby encouraging more people to participate in these activities.
- Environmental care:
- ERA places a strong emphasis on environmental responsibility and stewardship. It recognizes the importance of preserving natural landscapes and biodiversity for future generations to enjoy.
- The association promotes sustainable practices among walkers and hikers, encouraging them to minimize their environmental impact while engaging in outdoor activities. This includes principles such as Leave No Trace, which advocates for leaving nature undisturbed and minimizing waste.
- ERA actively engages in initiatives aimed at protecting and conserving the environment along walking and hiking routes. This may involve habitat restoration, trail maintenance, and other conservation efforts to ensure the long-term viability of these areas.
- By advocating for the responsible use of outdoor spaces, ERA contributes to the preservation of ecosystems and the promotion of biodiversity. It recognizes that the enjoyment of nature should not come at the expense of environmental degradation.
In summary, ERA’s mission effectively balances the promotion of walking and hiking activities with a commitment to environmental care. By fostering cooperation among its member organizations and advocating for sustainable practices, the association plays a vital role in promoting outdoor recreation while safeguarding the natural environment.