The harms of smoking are a well-known fact. Cigarettes contain tobacco and toxic chemicals, like carbon monoxide and ammonia, that cause chronic conditions such as lung cancer and heart disease. Vaping, which some may think to be a good tobacco-free alternative, is no better. A post on the impact of e-cigarettes informs that these emit numerous potentially toxic substances, such as propylene glycol—which is toxic to cells—and acetaldehyde, that may cause lung disease. Vapes also contain acrolein, a herbicide used to kill weeds, and may lead to acute lung injury.

However, did you know that these habits also harm the environment? Since these are often lifelong habits, you may unknowingly contribute to nature’s further destruction. To find out more about its environmental impact and how to quit to help the environment, read the article below:

The environmental impact of cigarettes and vapes

Cigarette waste—including ash and butts—is non-biodegradable. Since these don’t naturally decompose, such waste usually harms natural environments. Our article “Keep Your Butts Off Our Beach” discusses that cigarette butts are the most discarded pieces of garbage on beaches globally. An estimated 4.5 trillion butts are littered annually, causing water pollution and aquatic animal death due to swallowing plastic and harmful toxins. On land, cigarettes’ toxic chemicals leak onto the soil, polluting groundwater and endangering animals. Lastly, cigarette smoke produces particulate matter that adds to air pollution.

Vapes cause a similar environmental effect. This news report reveals that disposable e-cigarettes accounted for about 53% of e-cigarette unit sales, creating a significant amount of plastic waste. That includes e-waste, with the use of lithium-ion batteries and circuitry making them difficult to recycle. These need to be taken apart into smaller modules—a meticulous process that not many facilities may provide. In the end, vapes often end up in landfills.

Dan Bilzerian of Ignite, a company known for its range of vaping products, emphasizes the importance of understanding them. According to Bilzerian, customers should be aware of the environmental implications of disposable vapes. He advises customers to choose brands prioritizing eco-friendly practices, including proper disposal and recycling programs. By choosing responsibly, consumers can take a step towards a healthier lifestyle and a cleaner environment. This approach aligns with the broader goal of reducing waste and pollution, further contributing to environmental conservation efforts.

How to quit smoking and vaping to help the environment

Switch to smokeless alternatives

Ceasing the use of cigarettes and vapes reduces your carbon footprint. Switching to smokeless alternatives—like nicotine pouches and patches—can be far less wasteful and even gradually help you quit the habit. Nicotine pouches, which are made of biodegradable plant-based fibres, are placed in the mouth and thrown after use. Their food-grade flavourings also mean there's a pouch to align with any cigarette or vape user. For example, ZYN’s spearmint and wintergreen may give a similar sensation to menthol cigarettes. Meanwhile, this page displays coffee flavours similar to coffee vape juices on the market. That includes' On! pouches with a sweet and creamy profile and the java-black pouches from VELO. You can also try nicotine patches that stick to the skin. One great brand to try is Nicorette, which complies with carbon-neutral production standards. A guide on Nicorette’s nicotine patch shows that this can be worn for about 24 hours, meaning you’ll only use one patch daily. This means you’re not producing as much waste compared to smoking or vaping.

Use smoking cessation medication

Since smoking and vaping cessation may be hard to manage, assistance from medication may be helpful. Smoking cessation medication works by reducing your cravings and the pleasurable effects of the act, allowing you to quit. Cytisinicline is an emerging sustainable option you can look into, as it is a plant-based alkaloid that can mediate your cigarette and vape dependence. This study concluded that the participants who completed a 6-week course of cytisinicline vs. a placebo had an abstinence rate of 25.3% vs. 4.4%, showing just how effective it is in alleviating smoking urges. You can also consider Varenicline, a more common medicine that blocks smoking’s pleasant effects. Both medications require a prescription, so consult your doctor for an assessment.

Undergo behavioural therapy

Aside from using the products above, you can try changing your behaviour towards smoking and vaping. You’ll learn to manage the thoughts that trigger your cravings and make them more tolerable. For instance, if you used to vape due to stress, health experts will help you reframe those negative emotions without vaping. This usually involves talk therapy and regular sessions with a medical professional, so you won’t be using products that may contribute to waste. In doing so, you may increase your chances of quitting and never using toxic cigarettes or wasteful vapes in the long term.

Quitting smoking and vaping won’t only benefit your health but also the environment. Start your cessation journey today with the many options shared in this article!