Recently, the Indian film “Toilet: A Love Story” gained popularity, revealing the widespread lack of toilets in Indian households. This situation may sound familiar to outdoor enthusiasts who often venture into nature, leaving behind modern conveniences, including toilets. To avoid the environmental impact of indiscriminate waste disposal, it’s essential for outdoor lovers to adopt civilized solutions for addressing the three urgencies. Let’s explore the strategies to become a “bathroom hero” in the great outdoors.
Environmental Impact of Improper Waste Disposal: Indiscriminate disposal of waste in the wilderness can have severe consequences, including water source pollution, attraction of insects and wildlife, and disturbance to fellow campers. Recognizing the harmful effects of such behavior is crucial for every outdoor enthusiast.
- The First Tactic – Avoid Crowds for Outdoor Relief: This method is suitable for urination, considering the rapid evaporation and seepage of urine. Since urine is nearly sterile due to the presence of urea, practicing environmentally friendly urination involves staying away from crowds.
Guidelines for Urination:
- Stay far away from outdoor gathering spots, such as near rivers, climbing areas, and nearby campsites (preferably 10 meters away).
- Keep a distance from the center of roads, roadside vegetation, and other areas where others may pass (preferably 5 meters away).
- The Second Tactic – Indoor Solutions with Equipment Assistance: In unpredictable outdoor weather conditions, when it’s not feasible to step outside the tent for nature’s call, having an indoor “operation system” becomes crucial. Items like wide-mouthed bottles such as Pulse or Naijie can serve as saviors for those moments of urgency. For female campers, a prepared urination kit comprising an expandable funnel and an empty plastic bottle is a practical solution. Alternatively, disposable toilet bags offer convenience and comfort while minimizing odors.
- The Third Tactic – Digging Holes for Nature’s Return: Addressing the need for privacy and environmental responsibility, burying feces in the ground is a traditional yet effective method. It requires careful site selection and essential tools, such as a waste shovel.
Steps for Digging and Burying:
- Choose a location at least 60 meters away from water sources and campsites, with flat and loose soil, and some natural cover (large rocks, low bushes).
- Use your shoe to grind the soil a few times; if the soil is free of roots and stones, it’s suitable for digging.
- Once the location is confirmed, dig a hole approximately 18-25 cm deep and 12-18 cm in diameter.
- After relieving yourself, refill the hole with the excavated soil, making it even. Place used toilet paper in a pre-prepared sealed bag or plastic bag, carry it out of the wilderness, and dispose of it appropriately.
- The Fourth Tactic – Technological Upgrades for Enhanced Comfort: While outdoor restrooms may not match the comfort of home, adopting some refinements on the foundation of environmental responsibility can elevate the experience. Small details like using stepping stones to avoid direct contact with the ground and employing umbrellas for privacy, especially for female campers, contribute to a more comfortable outdoor restroom experience. For larger groups, carrying a portable outdoor toilet tent enhances privacy and facilitates centralized waste disposal.
Conclusion: Becoming a “bathroom hero” in outdoor camping involves mastering these tactics to ensure a comfortable and environmentally responsible experience. From avoiding crowds during urination to using indoor solutions and adopting proper waste burial techniques, outdoor enthusiasts can contribute to preserving nature’s beauty while answering the call of the wild.