Envirotent (a water-resistant cardboard tent!)

Envirotent makes sturdy cardboard tents that are warmer, sturdier and darker than nylon (plastic) tents. And a lot easier to put up, without the bother of tent pegs! They are insulated and water-resistant (not totally waterproof). And are easy to dismantle and recycle, at end of use.

Obviously don’t smoke in or near it (that goes for any kind of tent). Any cooking should take place at least 2 metres away from the tent. 

These tents are not the same as cardboard boxes. They are made from a high-performance board that has fewer surface holes, enhancing water resistance.

So they can brave heavy rainfall (and survive up to 4 weeks outside in winter) without need for coatings. A great ideal also for rough sleepers, to keep warm and dry. 

This company does not ‘sell tents’ to the public, but rather sells them to sites for music festivals, then collects and recycles them at end of the event, to stop the 1 in 4 plastic tents being left and littered. Campers are welcome to take their tents home, but they are not easy to transport due to their size.

Wild camping without permission, is actually illegal in England. So councils need to clamp down.

Tent Litter and Waste in England

Around 250,000 tents are abandoned each year in the UK, creating around 900 tonnes of plastic waste (around 70% of people only use a tent once, when bought). Made mostly from polyester or nylon, most end up on landfills or are incinerated.

On mainland Europe, there are many places where people can rent a tent, but as yet, they have not taken off here. You can drop off unwanted camping gear at some outdoor shops for recycling, so ask beforehand (or ask your council, if not).