Dump-free in the Stade district: Start of the anti-waste campaign!

Dump-free in the Stade district: Start of the anti-waste campaign!

In the second half of August, the Stade district will launch a comprehensive anti-tipping campaign that aims to sustainably protect the district's environment and reduce cigarette waste. Waste consultant Sabine Kiehl emphasizes that the initiative is not directed against smokers, but rather aims to raise awareness about the environmentally friendly disposal of cigarettes. After all, cigarette butts are not harmless waste - they are made of cellulose acetate, a plastic that does not rot and therefore remains in the environment for a long time.

Around 5.6 trillion cigarettes are smoked worldwide every year, and according to the WHO, two thirds of smoked cigarettes ultimately end up in nature. This has devastating effects: a single butt can pollute up to 1,000 liters of water. The campaign aims to make citizens aware that cigarette filters contain toxic substances such as nicotine, arsenic and heavy metals and therefore not only pose a danger to small children and animals, but can also damage groundwater. During heavy rain, the harmful substances can be washed out of the filters, causing environmental pollution that affects the food chain.

Environmental initiative with several actions

The campaign will be carried out in several stages until October and includes various focuses and actions. The project is supported by the Lower Saxony Bingo Environmental Foundation and local banks such as Sparkasse Stade Altes Land and Kreissparkasse Stade.

To get rid of cigarette butts, it is recommended that you dispose of them in the trash. Pocket ashtrays could be a viable solution on the street. According to a study by the Leibniz Institute, cigarette waste also promotes the growth of toxic blue-green algae in water, which can cause health problems such as skin irritation and respiratory diseases. These negative consequences could be largely avoided by simply and correctly disposing of cigarette butts.

A responsibility for everyone

The EU and WHO emphasize the responsibility of cigarette manufacturers for the environmental impact of their products. The BUND demands that manufacturers pay for publicity campaigns about environmental risks and finance closed ashtrays in public places. Consistent implementation of the EU single-use plastic directive and fines for the improper disposal of butts would also be necessary to sustainably protect the environment.

With this broad campaign, the Stade district not only shows a good hand in environmental protection, but also sets an example for a responsible civil society that works together against pollution caused by cigarette waste. The future of nature is in our hands – let’s tackle it!

Further information can be found on the website of Stade district, daily news and Climate protection Mülheim.