A new animation has been launched to raise awareness of the damage that cigarette and vape waste can cause to wildlife, local communities and the wider environment.
Developed by NHS Lanarkshire’s Quit Your Way team in partnership with Get Outdoors Lanarkshire, the short video explains how discarded cigarette butts and vapes can pollute land and water, introduce plastics and chemicals into the environment and create a fire risk when vapes containing lithium batteries are placed in general waste.
The animation encourages people who smoke to make sure cigarettes are fully extinguished and disposed of properly. People who vape are reminded not to place used devices in general waste, but to recycle them through an appropriate recycling centre or a retailer’s take-back scheme.
Staff are encouraged to watch the video and share it through their professional and community networks.
Cheryl Baker, Health Improvement Senior – Smoke and Vape Free Spaces, NHS Lanarkshire, said: “Everyone has a part to play in keeping Lanarkshire clean, safe and healthy. Through our Smoke and Vape Free Spaces work, we want to reduce smoking and vaping in NHS, community and public settings, protect people from second-hand smoke and encourage positive change.
“Almost half of Scotland’s litter comes from cigarettes and vapes, and this continues to affect communities across Lanarkshire. Our new video highlights the harm this waste can cause to wildlife and the environment, while explaining how cigarettes and vapes should be disposed of safely and responsibly.
“Thank you to everyone who contributed to the video and is helping us share its important message. Together, we can make a real difference to the health and sustainability of our local communities.”
Sarah Burgess, Green Health Development Officer at VASLAN, added: “I was delighted to support this important piece of work for Lanarkshire. Green health is about helping people connect with nature and enjoy the physical, mental and social wellbeing benefits of spending time outdoors.
“Cigarette and vape waste can harm wildlife and pollute the parks, paths and other outdoor spaces that our communities value. Keeping these places clean, safe and welcoming helps ensure that everyone can enjoy the benefits of being active and spending time in nature.
“We can all make a difference. If you smoke or vape, please dispose of cigarette butts safely and recycle used vapes responsibly. Small actions like these can help protect our environment and keep Lanarkshire’s outdoor spaces enjoyable for everyone.”
Anyone considering stopping smoking or looking for vaping advice can contact the NHS Lanarkshire Quit Your Way service free on 0800 84 84 84, or visit the Quit Your Way webpage.
