Surviving a Zombie Apocalypse: Green Edition
With disease outbreaks causing an immediate global threat, scary mind-altering substances in tap water and government-crafted natural disasters, the world is a really terrifying place for the conspiracy theorists who have found for themselves a burgeoning platform on social media websites. Conversely, the world is a beautiful (magnificent and full of wonder) place for the campers of Colorado who are gearing up for their final trips of the season this Labor Day weekend. And luckily for both parties, tips and skills for surviving in a post-apocalyptic world and reducing your carbon footprint while camping are totally transferable.
Don’t be trashy
You never know what kinds of germs and other ick could be festering in any heaping pile of trash. A zombie virus, perhaps? Don’t risk it! Let’s keep our trash contained and our land clean.
When camping, waste from the packaging of nonperishable foods and other camping goods is unavoidable. Not littering may seem obvious, but an abundance of trash can be found at any Colorado camping hot spot come summer’s end. A simple wrapper can damage soil, hurt plant life, and pose a health risk to the animals in the area. Be sure to bring plenty of trash bags for your garbage, and leave nothing behind.
Not all who wander are green … stay on the trails
Three quarters of the world have just been wiped out after a considerable catastrophe, and even our most advanced cities have been reduced to ruins. It might be tempting to try and relocate, perhaps find other survivors, and together attempt to rebuild a thriving world, but it might be wise to stick to places you know are still safe.
And don’t be the “considerable catastrophe” for delicate ecosystems.
“Visiting” areas not established for hikers and campers poses a risk to the area’s wildlife. Especially in the most scenic of spaces — lands with rivers and waterfalls, for example — the ground may be particularly delicate and susceptible to soil and plant damage. Also, these “forbidden” lands might be home to dangerous animals such as bears. Don’t become an afternoon snack.
Have the upper hand with second-hand gear
Knowing how to track down quality second-hand gear was already a daunting enough task in a pre-apocalyptic world, where surprises (like bedbugs and suspicious stains) lurked at every corner. Developing a keen eye for clean and safe second-hand gear will now serve you well come any disaster …
… including depleted funds and a real hankering for a summer camping trip.
Not only is second-hand camping gear inexpensive, it’s also a great choice for the infrequent camper concerned with producing less waste. With some care, great camping items can be found on Craig’s List or swapping sites like SwapAce.com. And if a once-loved sleeping bag isn’t quite your cup of tea anymore, many companies (hello, North Face!) are now producing new sleeping bags made up of recycled materials.
Going au naturel
If there’s an upside to being a sole survivor in a devastated world, it would probably be never having to put on pants again.
Unfortunately for campers in public parks, decency laws still apply. However, keeping your sunscreens, bug sprays, and toiletries as stripped of harsh chemicals and toxins is a good — and perfectly legal — idea for you and the environment.
