Cigarette butts are the most commonly discarded piece of waste worldwide. It is estimated that 1.69 BILLION pounds of butts wind up as toxic trash each year, creating an enormous environmental, health, and economic burden.
Contrary to popular belief, cigarette butts are NOT biodegradable! Cigarette butt waste is a huge environmental issue, with a global impact — it is both unsightly and unhealthy.
Smokefree or tobacco-free policies for beaches, parks, and campuses can help dramatically reduce tobacco waste in these areas.
Tips for reducing cigarette butt waste:
Educate community stakeholders about the impact of tobacco waste on the environment.
Include pre- and post-implementation butt clean ups as part of smokefree beach, park, and campus policies, along with clear, positive signage about the policy.
