Clearing the air: Chennai-based social initiative ‘Butt it Out’ steps up for a greener tomorrow

Cigarettes are notorious for their detrimental effects on human health. However, there’s another, even darker side to their story: they are the most common form of litter on our planet.

Packed with around 7,000 toxic chemicals, cigarette products are leaving an irreversible mark on our environment.

Moreover, in India, a staggering 266 million tobacco users contribute to a massive waste problem.

However, the absence of proper disposal mechanisms results in the contamination of our water, air, and land with heavy metals, toxins, and even lingering nicotine. This poses a significant environmental threat.

Also Read: National Green Tribunal files suo motu case based on South First report on Neyveli farmers’ plight

Challenging cigarette waste

‘Butt It Out’, an initiative created by environmentalist Ann Anra, founder of India Wasted (Wasted 360 Solutions), tackles this challenge through source segregation practices.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Butt It Out (@buttitout)

From setting up ingenious receptacles, collecting cigarette waste and butts to enabling their transformation through recycling, Wasted 360 Solutions is on a mission.

India Wasted, with its presence in both Chennai and Bengaluru, can be reached via their website or through their Instagram account @IndiaWasted

Also Read: The life and times of the ‘Father of the Green Revolution’