Leave No Trace in Waterford

Waterford City and County Council is proud to champion Leave No Trace Ireland, a national movement that encourages responsible outdoor recreation. Through this partnership, Waterford promotes care, respect, and sustainability across its parks, beaches, forests, and walking trails — ensuring that the county’s natural beauty can be enjoyed by everyone, today and in the future.

Protecting Waterford’s Wild Spaces

The Leave No Trace principles guide locals and visitors alike in enjoying nature responsibly. They include respecting wildlife, minimising impact, disposing of waste properly, and leaving natural and cultural features undisturbed.

Waterford City and County Council supports these values through educational workshops, public campaigns, and community engagement projects such as “Love This Place” — a countywide initiative reminding us that protecting nature begins with individual actions.

Key Actions and Initiatives

• Official Partnership: Waterford City and County Council is a proud member of the Leave No Trace Ireland campaign.

• Public Education: Awareness initiatives like Love This Place encourage everyone to act responsibly outdoors by preventing litter and being mindful of wildlife.

• School Programmes: Local schools take part in workshops that teach the seven Leave No Trace principles, helping the next generation understand how to care for their environment.

• Practical Guidance: Visitors are encouraged to take simple actions such as carrying out waste, keeping to established trails, and avoiding damage to plants and habitats.

• Promoting Responsible Recreation: The Council works with partners across Waterford to ensure that outdoor spaces — from coastal walks to mountain trails — remain clean, safe, and welcoming.

• “Green Your Picnic” Campaign: A community initiative promoting waste-free, eco-friendly picnicking and outdoor gatherings.

How You Can Help

Whether you’re hiking the Comeragh Mountains, strolling the People’s Park, or relaxing at Tramore Beach, remember:

• Bring your waste home.

• Stick to marked paths.

• Respect wildlife and local communities.

• Leave what you find, and take only memories.

Together, let’s keep Waterford’s landscapes beautiful and thriving — leaving no trace, only footprints of care.

Learn more at Leave No Trace and Waterford City & County Council.