Wilhelm Berbig, an industrial design student at the University of Applied Arts Vienna, has developed an innovative shovel called "Hideaway" specifically designed to help hikers maintain Leave No Trace principles during multi-day treks. The specialized tool addresses a unique challenge faced by hikers using Austria's network of signposted hiking trails, where small abandoned sheds serve as temporary shelters for overnight stays.
The problem Berbig identified stems from the fact that while savvy hikers bring their own toilet paper on multi-day adventures, these trail sheds lack proper bathroom facilities. His solution involves stocking the shelters with his specially designed shovels, enabling hikers to properly dispose of human waste while preserving the natural environment. The shovel's most distinctive feature is an integrated toilet roll holder built into the handle, which clearly communicates its intended purpose to users.
What sets the Hideaway shovel apart from standard planting spades is its deliberately heavy construction, which serves dual purposes of ensuring durability and providing theft protection. Despite its substantial weight, Berbig explains that the tool "does not have to be used for days on end, but is designed to enable even inexperienced users to dig a hole efficiently." The design incorporates well-dimensioned tread edges on both sides and features a robust 42-millimeter thick maple wood handle to facilitate effective digging.
Berbig has carefully considered the manufacturing process to ensure sustainability and cost-effectiveness. The spade blade is cut from standardized steel tubing, resulting in minimal waste during production. The tread edges are then bent into shape, and the handle holder is welded to complete the assembly. This thoughtful approach to manufacturing demonstrates the student's comprehensive understanding of industrial design principles.
According to Berbig, stocking trail sheds with these distinctive shovels would serve multiple purposes beyond their practical function. He believes they would "serve both as a recognition feature and as a subtle reminder of the cycle of nature and is intended to encourage guests to leave no trace." The project represents an innovative approach to environmental stewardship, combining practical tool design with educational messaging to promote responsible hiking practices.
The Hideaway shovel project showcases how thoughtful industrial design can address real-world environmental challenges while meeting the practical needs of outdoor enthusiasts. By creating a tool that is both functional and symbolically meaningful, Berbig has demonstrated the potential for design solutions to promote sustainable behavior in recreational activities.
