The Ministry for the Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge has published a decalogue with recommendations for responsible visits to the natural spaces and protected areas of Spain, the country with the most biodiversity in Europe.
The Ministry for the Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge (MITECO) has published a decalogue with recommendations for responsible visits to the natural spaces and protected areas of Spain, the country with the most biodiversity in Europe. With this guide, MITECO encourages people to reconnect with nature in the new normal, a practice that is beneficial for both the health of citizens and the local economy.
Natural environments play a fundamental role in Spanish tourism, as they not only have a high landscape value, but also help to promote health and prevent diseases. To this end, MITECO establishes a series of guidelines that guarantee the safety of citizens and the environment, recommending that physical distancing measures are respected, visits are organised in advance, crowds are avoided and due precautions are maintained.
The interactive guide is available for download at this link on the MITECO website and can be shared on social networks.
DECALOGUE TO ENJOY NATURE IN TIMES OF COVID-19
1. Nature is health and well-beingIt is scientifically proven that being in nature brings us multiple benefits and strengthens our immune system. By approaching it we will be able to feel and understand that we continue to depend on its inhabitants and processes. Nature is our first medicine.
2. Prepare your visit
The competent authorities will establish whether protected areas and other natural spaces are open to the public. Check the situation of your destination in advance to make sure which areas and services will be available. Bring with you everything you might need. Book and respect the allowed capacity.
3. Always take care of your health and those of others
Maintain a safe social distance and take all possible precautions to prevent COVID-19. If you visit a protected area, heed the instructions of the responsible personnel and follow the safety instructions that are established. Bring hand sanitizer in case water is not available and a mask.
4. Avoid crowded or crowded areas
Avoid natural areas where you can’t keep a safe distance from other people. If you go in small groups or go on solo excursions, you will help prevent contagion.
5. Follow the specific recommendations for beaches and bathing areas
Beaches and rivers are sensitive areas in which to pay special attention.
6. Know your limits
Enjoy nature but postpone new or difficult activities for the future. This will help emergency services, environmental actors and health services to focus on the response to the pandemic. If you visit natural areas or practice outdoor sports, make sure you always bring everything you need and that the activity you do is within your capabilities.
7. Be aware of your health
If you feel unwell or have been sick or exposed to COVID-19 in the last 14 days, do not leave the house, go on excursions or visit natural spaces. You can always enjoy the virtual tour tools available in many spaces. If you feel unwell or ill during your visit, return home as soon as possible and/or go to a health centre.
8. Leave no trace
When you walk a path or a path in the forest, cross a natural landscape, go to a bird observatory or do any other activity in nature, remember: do not leave any trace of your passage, that there is no waste or alteration.
9. Respect nature
In these last months of the pandemic, nature has had a respite from human activity. Make sure that the visits are respectful so as not to disturb the flora and fauna. If you travel or drive on rural roads, exercise extreme caution as the animals have become unaccustomed to human presence.
10. Help for local businesses
Visit natural areas near your residence and help improve their economic environment. Try to choose local companies in the nearby environment to rest, taste the local cuisine; Take guided tours and buy local products. With your spending you help the local economy.
