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Cave Exploring: Explore Caves Responsibly, Dispose Of Your Trash Properly

People of ancient times resided in caves and also used these underground structures as burial and religious sites. Most of the cave objects and paintings left by these people were protected from harsh climates and scavenging creatures. These were preserved and are now providing us with a glimpse of the past.

Caving isn't just about exploring caves but it is also about preserving our natural environment. A cave's ecosystem is delicate and can be easily destroyed. It is therefore important to keep caves the way they are. The cavers' motto says it all:

"Take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints, kill nothing but time."

One of the 7 principles of "Leave No Trace," a nationally recognized educational program for responsible outdoor recreation, focuses on proper disposal of wastes. It states that whatever you pack in you also have to pack out.

Don't leave or bury any trash inside a cave. Take out your trash with you and dispose of it properly. Carefully planning your meals before caving will minimize your trash and excess food scraps.

Place used trash in a plastic bag, take it out of the cave and dispose of it appropriately. Used carbide is toxic and can cause death to some cave dwellers.

Don't smoke inside a cave. You can unconsciously toss cigarette butts and mess up the place. Smoke from cigarettes can also have a negative impact on the existence of cave creatures.

On your way out of the cave, remove all route markers that your group has placed. Leaving them behind is a form of littering inside a cave and they will cause confusion to other groups of cavers.

Before you enter a cave, pay a visit to the toilet to avoid the need to eliminate human wastes while exploring. In cases of long cave trips, a bottle or any appropriate container can be used for urinating or defecating. Make sure that you carry it out of the cave.

Human wastes are dangerous to the living things inhabiting the cave. They can pollute underground water, attract microscopic organisms that are hazardous to health and cause lingering unpleasant smells.

You can dispose of human excrement once you are outside of the cave. Dig a hole, about half-foot deep, and bury your wastes. Avoid disposing of your excrement near camps, trails or water sources.

When you go exploring a cave, take out nothing but your trash and leave nothing but the natural beauty that enthralled you. Preserve the natural and historical treasures of caves for the appreciation of future generations.

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