ECO Award

Rambling is a very eco-friendly activity. People who go on rambling are aware of their surroundings and consciously try to respect the environment. Rambling associations help to reduce the negative effects of overcrowded footpaths by marking out new paths and providing other useful amenities.

ECO Award – Relaunched for a Greener Europe

The ECO Award, now part of the Green Trails Initiative, celebrates outstanding efforts in sustainability and eco-friendly practices across European trails. This award recognizes trails that go beyond in environmental conservation, waste reduction, and community involvement.

New categories

  • Best sustainable trail
  • Community engagement in trail preservation
  • Innovation in environmental practices

How to participate

Future Vision

An annual ceremony will honor exceptional trail managers, encouraging greener hiking experiences across Europe.

Join us in making Europe’s trails a model of sustainability!


European Ramblers’ Association (ERA) was formed in 1969 to unite federations and associations of ramblers from all over Europe. ERA encourages these groups to act responsibly towards the environment, gain recognition, and promote a sense of teamwork among their members.


Previous ECO Awards

In collaboration with its partner, GDF SUEZ Foundation, ERA established a competition between 2011 and 2014 to acknowledge European hikers’ endeavors that promote the preservation of the environment and the vital footpaths for sustainable development.