We’ve all seen it. That one person, cruising down the highway with the window down, enjoying a smoke at the end of the day. The sun is shining, the music is playing, and the fresh air is blowing. What could be better, right? They take one last drag and then toss what’s left out of the window without a single care in the world.
Except maybe they should have cared.
Smoker or not, you have to know that tossing your cigarette out of the car window is wrong, wrong, wrong! And if you don’t, then let’s take a moment to consider why you shouldn’t.
Cigarette butts are not biodegradable
Cigarette butts may look small and harmless, but they are actually made of cellulose acetate, a type of plastic that doesn’t break down easily. This means that they will remain in the environment for a long time, releasing toxic chemicals and pollutants into the soil and water.
Cigarette butts are toxic
Cigarette butts are not just a visual nuisance; they are also toxic. The filters are designed to trap harmful chemicals such as tar and nicotine, which means that when a cigarette butt is thrown out of a car window, these toxins are released into the environment. This can have serious consequences for wildlife and domestic pets, as animals may mistake cigarette butts for food. Once ingested, these toxins will be absorbed by the animal whose only crime was looking for an easy snack.
Cigarette butts can cause fires
Throwing cigarette butts out of car windows can also be a fire hazard. I don’t know why I even have to explain this to anybody that lived through 2016. Cigarettes can easily ignite dry grass, leaves, or other debris that may be lying on the side of the road. In fact, cigarette butts are one of the leading causes of wildfires in many parts of the world. There have already been reports of small fires caused by cigarettes this year. And I, for one, would like to skip another mass evacuation, thanks! Sometimes the smallest thing can pose the biggest risk.
Cigarette butts are litter
Finally, throwing cigarette butts out of your car window is simply littering. It is an offence that can result in a fine. It also contributes to the overall pollution of the environment. Cigarette butts can accumulate on the side of the road, in gutters, and in waterways, harming the ecosystem and making the area look unattractive. This is no different than throwing a coffee cup or burger wrapper out of the window. So, seriously, throw out your trash properly.
If you’re going to smoke in your car, then do us a favour and use the ashtray. If you don’t have an ashtray, then go get one. You can find one here on Amazon. If you don’t want to deal with the mess in your car, then don’t smoke in the car. It’s not difficult to figure out.
I’m sorry if this sounds rude. I’m sorry if I sound demeaning. Or condescending. Or however else you want to read this. But I’m going to say it loud and clear because it needs to be heard.
Please don’t be an ass! Deal with your ash!
The CJBuzz 