Yr Wyddfa is by far the busiest mountain in Wales. In August 2021, 115,000 people hiked to the summit along its many challenging routes.
Surveys show that 85% of people take responsibility for their rubbish. However, to claim Yr Wyddfa as the world’s first plastic-free mountain, we’ll need 100% of people to take responsibility for their rubbish.
Luckily, there are plenty of easy and budget-friendly ways to make your hike to Yr Wyddfa plastic-free and ensure that you’re part of that growing percentage of people who take responsibility for their rubbish.
Before setting off
Yr Wyddfa is a challenging mountain to climb. You should be very confident in your mountaineering skills before you venture on any of the routes to the summit. You may find some routes described as ‘easier’ routes to the summit. However you should by no means consider these routes ‘easy’. All routes to Yr Wyddfa’s summit are challenging hikes.
Packing for your plastic-free adventure
Reap the Rewards of Reusables
Packing a water bottle is crucial for staying hydrated during your ascent. Luckily, reusable water bottles are readily available and eliminate the need for single-use plastic bottles. Make sure that your bottle is full to the brim before setting off on the hill.
Leave no Trace Lunch
Carrying a lunch box is not only practical but also an environmentally conscious choice. Pack your provisions in reusable containers, ensuring that all waste, including organic waste such as banana peels and apple cores, returns with you. By adopting a “leave no trace” mindset, we preserve the landscape and protect it from the impact of litter.
Seasonal Snacks
Supporting local farmers and businesses is a great way to reduce your environmental footprint. Opt for locally sourced and seasonal produce to pack in your lunch box. Not only will this reduce the carbon emissions associated with long-distance transportation, but it will also connect you with the region’s culinary heritage.
Sustainable Clothing
When it comes to clothing, prioritize second-hand or natural fiber layers. Think about whether you can purchase pre-loved clothing rather than buying brand new, take part in an outdoor gear exchange and dress yourself in layers that are free of harmful chemicals and micro-plastics.
Eco-Friendly Food Wraps
To keep your snacks fresh and reduce plastic waste, wrap your food in paper or use beeswax wraps. These alternatives to plastic wrap are reusable, compostable, and free of harmful chemicals, ensuring your snacks stays fresh while leaving no trace behind.
Staying safe
While it’s important to pack sustainably, it’s crucial to prioritize safety. Before setting off for the hill you should familiarize yourself with essential mountain safety guidelines and be aware that climbing Yr Wyddfa is a challenging undertaking only suitable to experienced mountaineers. For more information on mountain safety and climbing Yr Wyddfa, see the National Park Authority’s guides.