Spain’s Government Holds Tobacco Companies Responsible for Cigarette Butt Cleanup

The Spanish government has decided that tobacco companies will bear the costs of cleaning up discarded cigarette butts as part of new environmental regulations. In a press release, Assoc. Prof. Mustafa Aydın, the President of the Turkey Anti-Smoking Association (TSSD), made important statements regarding the impact of this decision on environmental pollution.

TSSD President Assoc. Prof. Aydın stated, “This decision by the Spanish government is exemplary. Over one million people die each year due to smoking. In addition, cigarette butts create a significant environmental problem. Therefore, Spain’s decision should serve as an example for the entire world.”

“Tobacco Producers Should Clean Up the Pollution They Create”

According to the decision, tobacco companies will also be responsible for educating the public about not discarding cigarette butts on the ground. While the exact cost of cleaning and the cleaning process has not yet been clarified, it is expected that companies will pass this cost onto consumers. This situation is hoped to encourage quitting smoking. Doç. Dr. Aydın remarked, “With this decision, those who cause environmental pollution will also be responsible for cleaning up the environment. In other words, tobacco producers will clean up the pollution they create.”

“Everyone Should Step Up”

Highlighting that discarded cigarette butts are a major environmental issue, Doç. Dr. Aydın noted, “There are over 4,000 known and unknown toxic chemicals in cigarettes, including arsenic, ammonia, acetone, cadmium, tar, naphthalene, lead, and cyanide. Along with the numerous diseases caused by these toxic chemicals, there are also serious environmental problems.” He emphasized that everyone must step up for a more livable world.

Assoc. Prof. Aydın concluded by stating, “Our world is rapidly becoming polluted. For this reason, we must work solution-oriented and develop environmental projects. It is crucial to dispose of extremely harmful waste like cigarette butts. For a cleaner and more livable world, the Turkey Anti-Smoking Association will always prioritize the fight against smoking and its derivatives. As we always say, we will continue our struggle until the last molecule of cigarette disappears.”

Source: www.iha.com.tr
Date: 09.01.2023