The article I read was about how cigarette filters are full of microplastics and when you throw them on the ground, they contaminate the ground when the paper covering deteriorates. The little plastic fibers disperse with the wind and end up in and on everything around. These fibers are harmful to plants, soil, water and wildlife.
That is what made me mad. So, here is a post about exactly what these little things on the end of your cigarette can do if you toss them without consideration as they can take up to 10 years to degrade in the environment.
Here are some of the negative effects of cigarette filters on the environment:
- Harm to Wildlife: Many animals mistake cigarette filters for food and ingest them, leading to digestive problems, choking, and even death. Cigarette filters can also entangle and suffocate marine animals, such as sea turtles and seabirds.
- Soil and Water Contamination: When cigarette filters are discarded on the ground or in waterways, they release toxic chemicals and heavy metals, such as lead, arsenic, and cadmium, into the environment. These substances can contaminate soil and water, harming plants and animals, and potentially affecting human health.
- Waste of Resources: Cigarette filters are made of plastic, which is derived from non-renewable fossil fuels. When they are littered, valuable resources are wasted, and more energy is required to manufacture new filters.
Despite the negative impact of cigarette filters on the environment, some birds have found a way to use them to their advantage. Researchers have observed that urban birds, such as the house sparrow, are incorporating cigarette filters into their nests as a way to prevent parasites.
Here's how it works:
1. Parasite Prevention: Cigarette filters contain compounds, such as nicotine and ethylphenol, that repel insects and other parasites. By lining their nests with cigarette filters, birds can protect their young from infestation.
2. Nest Insulation: Cigarette filters are also effective at insulating nests, keeping eggs and hatchlings warm and dry. This is particularly important in urban environments, where temperatures can fluctuate more rapidly than in natural habitats.
3. Availability: Cigarette filters are abundant in urban areas, making them a readily available resource for birds that may have difficulty finding natural nesting materials.
While it's interesting to see how some birds have adapted to the presence of cigarette filters in their environment, it's important to note that this behavior does not excuse the harm caused by littering. Cigarette filters still pose a significant threat to wildlife and the environment, and efforts should be made to reduce their use and encourage proper disposal.
To mitigate the negative effects of litter, we must work together to reduce our use of plastic and properly dispose of waste.
