Cigarette Litter

Last month or so, we were able to participate in one of the WWF Shoreline Cleanups across Canada. This Saturday or Sunday, we will be taking it upon ourselves to go cleanup a local pond where many geese, fish and swans call home. It's not organized, but who says it needs to be?

Cigarette butts were plentiful last time we did the cleanup! So while on the Shoreline Cleanups website, this really jumped out at me:

Cigarette butts are the most common type of litter across the globe. When discarded, the harmful chemicals and toxins they contain can leach into the environment and even kill the animals that mistakenly ingest them. If you smoke outside, particularly on beaches, take along a portable ashtray or a small container that can hold your cigarette butts until you can dispose of them properly. This is a small action that can have a huge impact over time.

To learn more about cigarette litter, visit the CVW Cigarette Litter website.

Smokers: I wanted to share this with you, because you might not even realize the impact that you are having by simply tossing them on the ground. A portable ashtray sounds brilliant :)

Smokers and Non-Smokers: I had a lot of fun doing the cleanup last time! I challenge you to drag your mom, daughter, friend or significant other along for your very own litter pick up! Tweet your photos with the hashtag #shorelinecleanup 

What you will need per person:

• Appropriate attire (It's November and cold here in Toronto, so plan to stay warm! Don't forget a toque)
• Work gloves
• 3 garbage bags (one for trash & cigarettes, one for recyclables, one for "green bin" type items 
• Tissue for your nose
• A good attitude!