In reply to JLS:
> (In reply to Nao)
>
> >"Does sport climbing cause less long-term damage/wear and tear?"
>
> I'd say no. Damage/wear will for the most part be just a function of rock type and numbers of ascents. I'd suspect bolted routes see more ascents than trad routes due to fashion and relatively low number available.
But won't the wear and tear be pretty limited to certain areas (ie the routes, particularly round the bolted parts)? Whereas trad allows for dodgy/damaging placements, all over the shop...
I suppose it also depends on how you define the damage - is it better to limit it to one area (eg a footpath going through an area of outstanding natural beauty) or allow people free rein (potential for more widespread damage but less concentrated).