Footprints: defend the environment that hosts us

We at Detector Shop promote eco-sustainability and, to contribute to  the protection of environmental resources, we have decided to create a code of ethics to indicate the "good practices" to be observed during the various phases of metal detecting. 

Metal detecting, moreover, is a discipline that has always been in close contact with nature and, like trekking or walking, should always be made with responsibility and in strict respect for the environment

A winning combination of aerobic exercise and mental training, treasure hunting usually takes place:

  • among the most unspoiled nature
  • along the beaches
  • inaccessible hilly areas
  • scenarios of historical battles
  • mountain cliffs
  • river beds

and in all those lands where the anthropic impact of man is sometimes still limited.

There is no natural "stage" for metal detecting enthusiasts: everyone, according to their preferences and objectives, chooses the search ground where to practice it.

However, there is a common denominator: that of the open air, a "plus" that makes this discipline a formidable source of well-being because - with its coordinated movements (legs for walking and arms for sweeping and digging) - it guarantees all the benefits of regular physical activity

But, in addition to aerobic exercise, metal detecting also requires a dynamic mental commitment both in the preparation phase and during the search activity. Before each hunting session, in fact, the detectorist  scrupulously selects the terrains  that he/she considers most interesting, those that - based on his research and his historical-geographical evaluations - could reserve the most intriguing surprises. 

  • self discipline
  • observation skills
  • patience
  • attention to detail
  • mnemonic ability
  • obstinacy

and all those brain faculties that, through procedures of analysis and choice, help us to optimize our mental potential, to study strategies and to achieve a goal

Metal detector search is an activity that can be interpreted in various ways and therefore is really a discipline open to everyone. In fact, you do not need large spaces to practice it:

  • home garden
  • pitch of the street
  • neighborhood moat

they can become the ideal terrain for our research.

Whatever the spirit, however, there is an unavoidable ethical duty: respect for nature, education for sustainability, the protection of the landscape heritage and the reduction of any environmental impact

We have decided to take the side of nature and, through an intense awareness campaign, DetectorShop from 2022 will promote a decalogue of "green" behaviors, becoming an active and conscious actor in the dissemination of environmental policies. 

The goal is to educate detecting practitioners to a virtuous use of natural resources, counteracting - with practical actions and cultural initiatives - pollution, land degradation and the impoverishment of ecosystems.

 "Zero Impact" walks

Reduce your "ecological footprint" and leave no traces of your passage. If, in the search phases, digging or removing clods, before leaving, restore the soil, leaving it exactly as you had found it. 

 Take care of your waste

Respect the environment that hosts you and never throw waste or trash into nature. If your hike lasts a few hours, always carry a bag with you  to store your water bottle or plastic cutlery and, if you are a smoker, do not forget about a container for cigarette butts. 

 Move sustainably

Metal detecting usually takes place in delicate natural eco-systems:

  • forests
  • mountain
  • hilly areas
  • beaches
  • river banks

To reduce the emission of fossil fuels in such fragile environments, reach - where possible - your search sites by public transport or by bicycle and, if it is necessary to use the car, optimize transport through car-sharing or favoring hybrid or electrically powered cars.

 Contribute to the cleanliness of the environment

It is always important to remove any object from the ground, even if it is not a good keeper. If you find metal trash in the ground do not throw it back where you found it, but help to clean up the environment by placing it in a bag and then throwing it in the appropriate garbage containers

Respect cultivated land

Always remember to inform yourself who owns the land where you want to carry out your search and avoid protected parks and areas. If you are interested in a private field, ask permission from the owner and, in case it is cultivated agricultural land, wait for the harvest to be completed. 

 Eco-Friendly Snacks

To limit the use of plastic bottles, during your excursions, bring with you a comfortable metal thermal water bottle and, when choosing food for your supply, always choose recyclable bio containers. 

An Open Air "Gym"

 Constant physical activity improves your health and, if practiced outdoors (and not in the gym, for example) reduces CO2 emissions into the environment and therefore energy waste. During your excursions, especially when you travel through large spaces, remember to walk with wide and regular steps. You will do a  valuable aerobic exercise that can prevent metabolic syndrome and heart disorders. 

 Search with metal detectors? A precious educational moment

The younger generations grow up in increasingly cemented environments with a refined digital culture but a poor motor education. For this reason, whenever possible, during your metal detecting activities, bring a child (son, grandson, etc...).

Teach him to respect nature and, while you sweep the ground, stimulate his environmental consciousness, fueling curiosity and his desire to explore. Without giving up your passion, you can turn your excursions into precious didactic and educational moments. 

 Act responsibly

Practice metal detecting where it is allowed by law, avoiding areas subject to constraint (archaeological, naturalistic, landscape, military, etc.) and areas with visible ancient anthropic evidence. Remember that, in your research activities, the safety of people, animals and plants must always be put first. And when something "anomalous" emerges from the ground, do not hesitate to alert the police. 

Help us help the environment

Share these "good practices" and become a conscious disseminator of environmental sustainability yourself. Be a first-hand spokesperson for the best practices you adopt in your circle of friends. Social media, in this case, can be a powerful ally of positive change.

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