Last month we talked about how a staggering amount of single-use plastic items end up as litter at music festivals in the UK. It turns out one item in particular gets discarded or abandoned more than others and in surprisingly large quantities: plastic tents.
In the past five years, 70% of people who bought a tent have either abandoned or disposed of it, while more than half of people have used it only once. This means that approximately 250,000 nylon or polyester tents get left behind each year, therefore contributing significantly to environmental pollution. In other words, camping equipment is fast becoming the new single-use plastic.
With the UK summer holiday at our doorstep and families gearing up for camping trips and beach outings, now’s the time to consider more environmentally friendly alternatives to the polyester or nylon-based tent – enter the cardboard tent.
Why get on board with cardboard tents
It was not long after festival organisers started dismantling stages at Glastonbury that the first news stories about cardboard tents started appearing online, and it’s not hard to see why.
Eco-friendly
Cardboard tents significantly reduce waste. Unlike traditional tents, which often end up in landfills, cardboard tents are fully recyclable, supporting a circular economy.
Waterproof
Understandably, most people would question how a cardboard tent would fare in the wet British summer. Luckily, these tents include both an inner layer and outer layer of treated cardboard, combined with a structure which funnels water away, quashing all worries about a soggy camping experience!
Superior insulation
Another standout feature of cardboard tents is their superior insulation. Thanks to the corrugated structure of the cardboard, these tents provide better warmth in cold weather and remain cooler in hot weather compared to regular tents.
High durability
Despite being made of cardboard, cardboard tents are able to resist outdoor conditions for several weeks, making them a reliable choice for extended use during the summer.
Creatively customisable
Cardboard tents are not just practical, they can be surprisingly fun for the whole family. Kids can personalise their tents by drawing on them, turning them into unique, creative spaces that enhance their camping experience. It also makes them easier to spot in a row of cardboard tents!
A more responsible camping experience
Cardboard tents are already proving their worth at some festivals, receiving positive feedback for their practicality and environmental benefits, with users singling out their ease of recycling and the added comfort provided by the insulation.
More importantly, choosing a cardboard tent is a step towards a more responsible camping experience. Campers and festival goers are now able to cut down even further on plastic waste and significantly reduce their environmental impact.
So if you’re looking to try something new this summer, you could do worse than opt for a cardboard tent for your outdoor adventures. Just remember to fold it up and pack it up at the end of the holiday – remember to always reuse and recycle responsibly!