New Report Shows Environmental Impact of Cigarette Waste

A new report by the National Institute of Cancer Prevention and Research (NICPR) has found that tobacco waste is a major environmental hazard in India, with millions of cigarette butts and other tobacco products being discarded every day.

The report, titled "Tobacco Waste: An Environmental Hazard in India," reveals that India is the world's second-largest consumer and producer of tobacco products, with an estimated 267 million tobacco users.

 "The report highlights the urgent need for action to address the tobacco waste problem," Greenpeace India stated. "The tobacco industry must take responsibility for the waste it produces, and the government must regulate the industry to reduce its environmental impact."

Cigarette butts are the most commonly littered item globally. The study's authors estimate that tobacco use generates over 1.5 million tons of waste each year, including cigarette butts, plastic packaging and other tobacco-related waste. In addition, cigarette filters are made of a type of plastic called cellulose acetate, which can take up to 10 years to decompose.

The report highlights the harmful effects of tobacco waste on the environment and public health, including increased air and water pollution, soil contamination and harm to wildlife. It also emphasizes the economic burden of tobacco on waste management. It suggests several measures to address the problem, including public awareness campaigns to promote responsible disposal, tobacco industry responsibility for waste collection and disposal and regulation of the tobacco industry.

Dr. Ravi Mehrotra, NICPR director, commented, "Tobacco waste is a significant environmental hazard, and urgent action is needed to address this problem. It is time for the tobacco industry to take responsibility for the waste it produces, and for the government to regulate the industry to reduce its impact on the environment and public health."

The report comes as India is grappling with several environmental challenges, including air pollution, plastic waste, and climate change. Government officials have recently taken steps to address these issues, including the ban on single-use plastic and the launch of the National Clean Air Programme.

The report is expected to contribute to ongoing efforts to address India's environmental challenges and to promote a more sustainable and responsible approach to tobacco production and consumption.