ORNI Launches New Campaign to Get People on the ‘Right Side of Outside’
29th March 2021
A new nationwide campaign has just been launched by WalkNI, a brand of Outdoor Recreation NI called ‘The Right Side of Outside’ to generate awareness of a number of significant issues caused by a surge in visitors to the outdoors since the start of the pandemic. The most prevalent issues disrupting our natural beauty spots include littering, dog waste, irresponsible car parking, livestock worrying, disturbance to wildlife, overcrowding and damage which can be caused by wild camping and wildfires.
The campaign is funded by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and is being driven by a wider group of organisations currently being affected by these issues.
Speaking on the launch, Chair of Outdoor Recreation NI, Dawson Stelfox MBE and the first Irish man to reach and lead a team to Everest in 1993 said: “In the past year, outdoor space has mattered to us more than ever, providing a true place of escapism from the reality of the pandemic. With spring upon us and social distancing regulations set to relax further, we want to ensure that people continue enjoying the outdoors, making great memories with family and friends; but in a way that is positive for their surroundings. Whilst most visitors out and about are respectful of their natural environment, there are a small number who have exploited the freedoms of the outdoors. We want to encourage people to prepare before heading out, adhere to health and safety measures, be respectful of others and understand that simple changes such as going early to ensure you get a car parking space, avoiding areas where livestock are present if you have a dog, bringing your dog waste home with you and knowing the risks associated with outdoor fires will have a huge impact.
“Whilst COVID-19 regulations continue to change, we ask people to please be mindful of current guidance that is in place. Our campaign is a positive reminder to embrace outside, but respect the space you are in.”
‘The Right Side of Outside’ campaign will roll out over the coming weeks, with the first campaign message focusing on littering, an issue Outdoor Recreation NI recognises is one of the most prevalent. The main message is to bring your litter home. Some outdoor spots don’t have bins and if they do, bins can quickly overfill. There are also items such as apple cores or banana skins that can be a danger to wildlife.
Dawson adds: “On a visit to the countryside, always take your rubbish home with you. It may sound obvious, but it is surprising how many people don’t. Alternatively, if you see a discarded crisp packet, can, bottle or any litter when out and about, pick it up. Keep a bag and protective gloves in your rucksack for litter-picking opportunities. These small actions will have a lasting positive impact. We choose to escape to these scenic locations to enjoy and bask in their beauty, so why would you wish to taint it for future generations?”
Helping Outdoor Recreation NI kick off its campaign is local comedian Shane Todd who stars in one of the campaigns videos which you can watch on Facebook. The not-for-profit organisation will also be teaming up with a number of Northern Ireland’s well-known personalities and influencers; asking them to champion the campaign’s key messages.
To find out more about the campaign or discover tips to help you make the right choices outdoors, visit WalkNI’s Blog or search #RightSideofOutside.