Ban Single-Use Vapes and Cigarette Filters

Cigarette filters are the most pervasive form of litter worldwide and our coastal ecosystems face significant perils from cigarette and vape waste. Improperly disposed cigarette filters and single-use vapes seep toxic chemicals into the environment, pollute water, and harm wildlife. A research study noted that within 96 hours, just one tobacco filter could kill 50% of the saltwater and freshwater fish exposed to its toxins.

The Surfrider Foundation is excited to see the introduction of AB 1690 - Banning Single-Use Vapes and Tobacco Filters. Our most recent Beach Cleanup Report shows that cigarette butts continue to be the top most commonly found items picked up during beach cleanups. Small and difficult to clean up, cigarette butts contain plastic filters that never break down, leaching toxic chemicals and microplastics into our environment.

Local governments and state agencies bear enormous annual costs to clean up littered cigarette filters and single-use vapes. Throughout the state, cigarette litter forces public agencies to spend over $41 million annually in taxpayer funds on sanitation services, which cigarette butts account for one-third. 

Cigarette litter has detrimental impacts on our environment, communities and health, and we need action now to minimize its harm.