A new national awareness campaign focusing on littering, responsible dog management, and the dangers of campfires has been launched by Leave No Trace Ireland - the country's only outdoor ethics programme.

The campaign is asking members of the public to play their part by acting responsibly, so that everyone can experience and enjoy outdoor spaces while helping to protect them from increased pressures this year, as Covid-19 restrictions are lifted.

Commenting on the launch, Minister of State for Heritage and Electoral Reform, Malcolm Noonan said:

“Loving nature, wildlife and the great outdoors means being thoughtful, prepared and proactive," he said.

Such things include:

Leave No Trace Ireland chief executive, Maura Kiely said:

"However, this is also putting pressure on open spaces which is threatening the quality and protection of the outdoors that are also important habitats for wildlife and a working environment for farmers.

The public awareness campaign is being run by Leave No Trace Ireland in partnership with: Sport Ireland; the National Parks and Wildlife Services under the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage; the Department of Rural and Community Development; the Office of Public Works; Fáilte Ireland; Waterways Ireland; Coillte; and Dublin City Council.

The campaign will run on national and local radio and social media starting today (June 28) and will continue throughout July.

The Love This Place, Leave No Trace campaign will emphasise several key messages.

Littering

Responsible dog ownership and control

Campfires and disposable BBQs