NORM 6
We respect the natural and human mountain environment
High elevation habitats are not only home to endemic plant, fungi and animal species, but also play a pivotal role as refuges to species in lower elevations that are threatened by climate change and human-induced pressures. Mountains and rock climbing areas are also hosts to what is increasingly being recognised as “geo-diversity”, which entails the rich variety and diversity of rocks, minerals, fossils, landforms, sediments, and soils, together with the natural processes that lead to their formation.
Climbing and mountaineering can have profound effects on bio and geo-diversity such as the natural vegetation cover, richness and range of animal species, the loss of soil and vegetation through erosion, and rock quality and overall landscape appeal. Consequently, the attraction and intangible value of mountainous landscapes could not only diminish, but also the fundamental functioning of mountain ecosystems could be compromised.
Examples of impacts on nature (bio and geo-diversity) from climbing and mountaineering activities, include excessive over-use of sensitive areas, altering, defacing, or scarring the surface of cliffs and rock walls through bolting, anchors, chalk use, or the installation of infrastructure to facilitate access and climbing, such as Via Ferratas or ladders, (human) waste and pollution, the latter in particular in expedition climbing and mountaineering – especially in remote and high-elevation regions.
- Whilst trekking or camping, we endeavour to keep the landscape, tracks and sites pristine
- We avoid burning wood for cooking and heating and provide fuel for porters on expeditions. Preparing food for as many people as possible supports reducing carbon emissions.
- We avoid camping near animal burrows and stay at least 30 meters away from water sources. When camping for longer times, we change our spot every couple of days, where practical.
- We try to be as quiet as possible and avoid playing music or shouting as noise interferes with wildlife.
- We reduce any form of waste and bring our (human) waste back to where it can be disposed of in a cleaner way, where practical and appropriate.
- We minimise waste by avoiding unnecessary packaging.
- We take all waste away including organic matter which can spoil the landscape and harm local wildlife.
- We avoid contamination of water sources in any way and don´t wash directly or swim in vulnerable lakes, ponds or rivers.
- We clean up any litter found near water sources, especially hazardous waste like batteries.
- We are mindful of wildlife and their habitats, avoiding direct contact. We do not feed or handle wildlife as it can alter their natural behaviour and diet.
- We only harvest fruits and seeds if it does not disrupt the local food chain or ecosystem.
- We remember that pets are not considered as wildlife and that they can carry diseases into wildlife populations and threaten wild animals with their behaviour.
- When we visit a rock-climbing crag, we ask the local communities before starting to clean a route (including lichen, moss, plants, bushes), as they would probably be aware of any endemic/rare species. We only remove as much vegetation as it is necessary to do the route.
- We consider using as little chalk as possible when climbing. Excess chalk and chalk spills can alter the pH and nutrient conditions of the rocks, affecting fauna and flora.
- Environmental monitoring in remote areas is challenging. We support local environmental projects, especially when travelling in regions with vulnerable natural environments and we help prevent degradation by reporting environmental issues to authorities.
Balancing risks success and failure
Rights and responsibilities