As shoemakers with purpose, we’ve always had the mission to make shoes in order to make a difference. Since 2003, we’ve run our family-owned business effectively so we can use our resources and profits to make a bigger impact.
And a big part of how we do that is through the European Outdoor Conservation Association (EOCA). We’ve been supporting EOCA since 2007, donating €10K annually on top of membership dues for the last 10 years as Sustaining Members.
Image: Waddensea Clean Up
Right now, our contribution is supporting EOCA as they organise 90 clean-up events in Switzerland and Italy through 2025, involving approximately 4,500 people and resulting in 9.9 tons of rubbish being removed from the mountains.
Previous projects we’ve supported include restoring mangroves in Indonesia, cleaning up the Wadden Sea, restoring Sierra de Lujar, and saving Bangkaru's endangered species. Since 2006, EOCA has funded 201 projects, investing €5.6 million in conservation in 65 countries.
Photo credit: adripherie
Photo credit: adripherie
But beyond these much-needed grassroots conservation, protection, and regeneration projects around the world, EOCA works to make conservation a regular part of recreating outside. Because it’s the steps we all take every day that make the biggest impact on the wild places we love. Here are the simple things we can all do to tread lighter:
- Keep safe – plan ahead and be prepared.
- Be mindful of locals – park thoughtfully, and keep dogs under close control.
- Co-operate with farmers and other landowners and managers.
- Respect and leave undisturbed the natural habitats and wildlife you come across.
- Preserve the past – do not remove or tamper with historical structures.
- Respect and be courteous to other outdoor users. Minimise your impact on their ‘natural experience.’
- Take home your litter and waste. (And while you’re at it, grab any you see out there.)
- Check and follow the laws and codes of conduct established in your country for the activity you are planning to undertake.
If you’d like to go above and beyond, consider donating to the EOCA and signing up for their newsletter for more on upcoming projects.
