Started in March 2025, the Gear Tips Empowerment Program is a long-term, ongoing program. At its core is the Leave No Trace – Level 1 Instructor Course, which prepares individuals to educate others on responsible outdoor practices and minimizing human impact on nature.

The programme was created to address a critical gap in Brazil’s outdoor and conservation landscape: the lack of accessible, structured technical training for outdoor professionals and park rangers. The programme’s vision is to build a nationwide network of well-trained individuals who promote responsible recreation, conservation ethics, and environmental stewardship in mountain and natural areas across the country.

The aim is not only to train individuals but also to create local multipliers—people who can bring this knowledge back to their communities, guide groups responsibly, educate visitors, and collaborate with conservation units. This long-term vision helps preserve delicate ecosystems, reduce accidents in natural areas, and support the sustainable development of ecotourism and adventure travel.

All courses are delivered in person, with a strong emphasis on practical, hands-on learning. To support continued education, participants also receive lifetime access to the Gear Tips Academy — a digital platform that offers updated materials, such as videos, articles, and technical resources. This blended approach ensures that learning goes beyond the classroom and becomes an ongoing process.

Additionally to the Leave No Trace course, the program offers:

• Orienteering with Map, Compass, and GPS, improving safety and reducing environmental degradation caused by off-trail hiking.
• Wilderness Advanced First Aid (WAFA), providing emergency response training to minimize unnecessary rescue operations, which can disrupt sensitive mountain environments.
• Furthermore, satellite tracking and communication, as well as sustainable outdoor cooking are addressed.

All courses are fully or partially subsidized:

– Park Rangers receive 100% scholarships, allowing them to attend at no cost.
– Outdoor professionals receive 80% to 100% scholarships, making training accessible to those who will apply these skills in real-world settings.

By 2025, Gear Tips aims to train 500 new Leave No Trace Level 1 Instructors, expanding the reach of sustainable outdoor education.

The primary goal is to empower guides, instructors, and rangers with the knowledge and practical tools they need to operate safely, sustainably, and in alignment with internationally recognized best practices. Participants learn how to teach and spread minimum-impact practices within their communities and professional environments. Ultimately, the Gear Tips Empowerment Program exists to build a more ethical, educated, and resilient outdoor community—one that not only enjoys nature but protects it.