Reasons to Never (Ever) Dispose of an Apple Core from Your Car Window

Apple cores dont naturally break down when discarded on the ground and can persist for months. They draw wildlife toward roadways, increasing the risk of fatal accidents for both animals and humans. Feeding wildlife can also make them sick, aggressive, and more likely to be euthanized by park authorities. Additionally, thrown apple seeds can grow in unintended areas, disturbing local plant communities.

Kevin Jackson, founder and lead guide of EXP Journeys, who spends significant time in national parks, has witnessed firsthand how seemingly minor actionslike tossing an apple core out of a carcan harm animals and fragile ecosystems. Even with good intentions, discarding an apple core can lead to wildlife road deaths, conflicts with humans, and environmental imbalances, he explains.

Why Apple Cores Persist

Organic waste like apple cores doesnt decompose efficiently outside of controlled environments. Effective composting requires a balance of moisture, heat, oxygen, and decomposer organisms such as bacteria, fungi, and invertebrates, says Lauren Click, executive director of Lets Go Compost. Roadsides rarely provide these conditions, leaving the core exposed to sun, dust, and pollutants, which slows decay. As a result, apple cores can remain for weeks or even months.

Risks to Wildlife and Drivers

Food waste on roadsides attracts animals to dangerous areas. Jackson points out, When animals begin to associate roads with easy meals, they linger where traffic poses a threat. Michael Nelson, an animal expert and founder of Kennel Store, adds, Encouraging wildlife to stay away from busy roads is crucial for the safety of both animals and motorists.

Impact on Animal Health

Apples are not a natural part of many wild animals diets. Nelson explains that seeds and fibrous parts can be hard to digest, potentially causing digestive issues or even choking hazards. Feeding wildlife in this way can also alter their behavior, leading to aggressive interactions with humans.

Disruption of Local Ecosystems

Discarded apple cores can introduce non-native plants, upsetting the balance of local ecosystems. James Ian, founder of Parks Collecting, warns, If seeds sprout in the wrong environment, they can crowd out native plants and disrupt the ecological community.

Encourages Littering

Beyond ecological and safety concerns, leftover fruit and cores are visual litter that diminishes outdoor spaces and can inspire further littering, Click notes.

Ultimately, even small acts like tossing an apple core out of a car window can have wide-reaching consequences for wildlife, humans, and natural habitats. Keeping all waste contained and properly disposed of is the best way to protect our environment.

Author: Lucas Grant