An estimated 5 billion butts alone clog our planet’s oceans.
This common litter takes about 10 years to decompose, releasing toxins as it deteriorates.
The filters in particular are a problem.
Photo: BOBBERY/Depositphotos
The package of laws is part of the EU’s move away from single-use plastic and other common pollutants.
The Royal Decree on Packaging and Packaging Waste passed on December 27, 2022.
The law also bans single-use plastic cutlery, cotton buds, as well as certain other plastics.
Photo: NATAGOLUBNYCHA/Depositphotos
As a result, cigarette manufacturers will have to foot the bill for cleaning up butts.
They will also be required to educate the public on proper disposal.
Around the world, 4.5 trillion cigarette butts are disposed of annually.
Two-thirds are improperly disposed of.
Estimates put the filter waste at about 40% of coastal litter.
Of course, everyone also knows that smoking cigarettes has huge negative health effects.
This may have a dual effect of cleaning up existing litter and curbing smoking habits for better health.
