[pct-l] Pct-L Digest, Vol 35, Issue 60

[Will Hiltz]

The problem with these environmental piety contests is that there is always
someone greener than you so you start to sound a little sanctimonious.  For
example, have you considered the environmental impact of the paper you are
using?  Most TP is not recycled, is made from old-growth trees and is
bleached in the manufacturing process.  You point out damage to root systems
done in digging the hole... a given-- but a given in both your case and our
smooth rock folk case.  Or are you carrying out your actual poops as well?
 Once the hole is dug I submit its a least a wash, and probably "greener" to
use a few smooth stones you picked up from a riverbed rather than TP that
drives timber harvest in the very sorts of forests we are enjoying on the
trail. You shouldn't be grabbing foliage unless you absolutely must and I
agree this is not LNT process in principle, but in terms of impact its still
below industrially manufactured TP.  Maybe your own behavior needs to change
with the times.... or just keep the sanctimony, keep using paper and just
don't bury it!


Easy


> Message: 13
> Date: Sun, 21 Nov 2010 17:04:23 -0800 (PST)
> From: Ann Marie <dbanmrkr at yahoo.com>
> Subject: Re: [pct-l] TP or no TP
> To: pct-l at backcountry.net
> Message-ID: <449103.53147.qm at web55506.mail.re4.yahoo.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1
>
> > TP or no TP
>
> smooth rocks
> smooth sticks
>
> <etc>
>
> Okay, I get that some of you use organic TP or other trail matter than you
> consider more suitable as a matter of personal choice, but you are missing
> the point that some of us responsibly use "paper" TP alternatives and carry
> them out EVERY time.? If you don't use paper products, that's great....for
> you alone. But the very act of digging a cathole disturbs the environment
> and nearby plant roots. Most hikers understand that idea....and still
> realize it is the price we have to pay as hikers practicing LNT to hike the
> trails. However, I have to question why some of you insist on disturbing
> even more of the environment by (re-)moving rocks and/or leaves or whatnot
> to use as TP. We all know you have to bury them once you contaminate them
> with fecal matter....so why touch the stuff unnecessarily? Nature placed
> them where you found them.. Please leave the environment alone as much as
> you can do so responsibly. Carrying out used paper in an already-carried
>  garbage bag is such a small price weight to pay. And we need to be one
> voice forward to convince all future hikers to do the same. Please stop
> offering what you think are viable alternatives. Maybe your own behavior
> needs to change to get with the times.
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