We’ve all seen it happen – a driver casually flicking a banana peel, apple core, or orange peel out the window of their moving vehicle. The assumption, one might guess, is that these items are natural and they’ll simply decompose without a trace. However, this mentality, despite the biodegradability of these items, still contributes to the problem of littering.

Littering is not solely about whether an item is biodegradable or not. It’s about respect for our environment, the aesthetics of our neighborhoods, and the potential hazards any discarded items might pose, irrespective of whether they decompose over time.

A Greater Threat

When you toss an apple core out the window, it might indeed decompose over time. However, the interim period before decomposition is complete isn’t so benign. These food remnants can attract wildlife to roadsides, putting animals – and drivers – at risk of dangerous encounters. This may also disrupt the natural behavior of wildlife, causing them to become dependent on human food waste, which can threaten humans in nearby communities when looking for food.

Additionally, the decomposition process isn’t as swift as one might think. A banana peel, for instance, can take up to two years to fully decompose. During that period, it’s essentially a piece of litter marring the landscape- clogging our drains – and might even end up in waterways, causing harm to aquatic life, which threatens our seafood.

A Broader Message

There’s also a broader societal message at play. Littering – even with organic material – sets a precedent that it’s acceptable to discard waste in public spaces. This might encourage others to do the same, potentially with non-biodegradable items, exacerbating the litter problem overall.

So what’s the alternative? 

It’s simple: keep a small bag or container in your car for biodegradable waste. When you get home, these items can be composted, turning them into nutrient-rich soil for your garden. Not only does this keep our roadways clean, but it also uses waste in a constructive and environmentally beneficial way.

As drivers, we all have a role in preserving and respecting the environment. Our actions extend far beyond safe driving practices; they should reflect our commitment to a cleaner and healthier planet. So remember, just because something is biodegradable doesn’t make throwing it out the window acceptable. Yes, it’s biodegradable, but you’re still littering. So, let’s aim to keep our roads and environment litter-free.

Kym Wimberly
Driving Coach
ACT Qualified Driving Academy