The Alps are our home, our playground and our inspiration. As outdoor lovers, we know how important it is to preserve nature so that future generations can enjoy the beauty of the mountains. Unfortunately, the garbage left behind in the mountains is becoming an increasingly serious problem. In this blog post we would like to explain why it is so important to avoid garbage on the mountain and what each individual can do to protect our nature.
The effects of garbage in nature
Mountains are a delicate ecosystem and garbage can have catastrophic consequences for wildlife and the environment. Animals often mistake plastic for food, which can have fatal consequences. A discarded piece of plastic or metal can persist for decades, spoiling the landscape and polluting soil and water. Especially in the mountains, where waste disposal is more difficult than in urban areas, waste often remains lying around for years.
In addition, garbage affects the experiences of other hikers and nature lovers. Nobody wants to stumble over empty plastic bottles or snack wrappers while looking at a majestic peak or a clear mountain valley. Respect for nature and other mountain visitors should always come first.
What can we do?
Fortunately, there are many ways we can all help keep the mountains clean:
- Pack your trash: The easiest way to avoid littering is to not leave it behind in the first place. Everything you take with you up the mountain – from snacks to packaging – should also be taken back down to the valley. Bring a small bag to collect your own trash. A roll of dog poop bags in your backpack is practical so that the garbage is safely stored and the backpack stays clean. If you see someone else leaving trash behind, please be kind enough to pick it up too.
- Less packaging, less waste: Try to carry food and snacks in reusable containers instead of using single-use packaging. This way you not only avoid waste, but also have less to carry.
- Respect nature: Stick to the marked paths and campsites to avoid unnecessary strain on the sensitive ecosystem. “Leave No Trace” should be more than just a slogan – it is an attitude that we should all internalize.
- Be a role model: Your behavior serves as a role model. Show others that you dispose of garbage properly and treat nature with respect. Together we can raise awareness and inspire others to do the same.
HARD FACTS
- Banana peel: 1–3 years
Many people think that organic waste disappears quickly, but even a banana peel can take several years to completely decompose, especially in colder areas such as the Alps.
- Paper tissue: 2–5 years
Paper products also take a surprisingly long time to decompose, especially if they end up in damp or cool environments.
- Aluminiumdose: 200–500 years
Aluminium is particularly durable. A discarded can can remain in nature for several centuries and pollute the environment.
- Plastic bottle: 450 years or more
Plastic bottles decompose extremely slowly. They break down into smaller and smaller pieces, but never disappear completely. These so-called microplastic particles pollute the environment for centuries. They can penetrate the soil and water and thus contaminate our food. The particles ultimately even enter our own bodies via the food chain – a problem that we must take seriously.
- Cigarette butts: 10–12 years
Many people underestimate how long it takes for a cigarette butt to decompose. The chemicals they contain and the plastic in the filter make them particularly harmful to the environment.
- glass bottle: 1 million years or never
Glass bottles are almost indestructible. Theoretically, they could remain in nature forever, posing a constant threat to animals and the environment.
Let us work together to preserve the beauty of the mountains. Every little step counts – whether it’s packing up your trash or spreading this message.
With heart and mind for nature – as befits real Alpine children.