Hikers all over the world are being advised to STOP Throwing Banana Peel on Hike Trail!
Apple cores and banana peels are indeed “biodegradable.” But throwing them into the woods is not only unsanitary; it is also harmful to wildlife. We all love to stay healthy and snacks on fresh fruits when on a hike. However, I have recently found out that orange & banana peels takes 2 years to decomposed.
I was surprised when I read the article from BBC regarding Banana Peels that have taken over the trails of Ben Nevis. I was shocked as I am guilty of leaving my banana peels on my hike. We are all aware they are biodegradable, however, we forgot to check how long it takes for Banana Peel to decompose.
The John Muir Trust is tackling this problem for years in Ben Nevis. The Real3Peaks Challenges, an event that runs every October to promote awareness & deep cleaning of hiking trails in the UK. If you want to join The Real3Peaks Challenge this year check out their Facebook page.
Below is a list of trash we should avoid leaving in our hiking trail.
- Banana skins/orange peels – two years
- Cigarette butts – 12 years
- Plastic carrier bags – 10 to 1,000 years
- Plastic bottles – 500 years
- Crisp packets – 80 years
- Tissues – A month
Sources: Zero Waste Scotland
