Cigarette butts: more than waste, a toxic cellulose acetate residue

Authors

  • Jose Manuel Espinoza González Universidad Estatal a Distancia (UNED). San José, Costa Rica

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.22458/rb.v36i2.6278

Keywords:

cigarette butts, recycling, urban waste, cellulose acetate, circular economy

Abstract

Cigarette butts are a common urban waste with a serious environmental impact due to their toxicity and slow breakdown. This essay reviews collection and recycling strategies, including clean-up campaigns, specialized bins, and chemical and physical processing for reusable materials. Their application in construction and biofuels is explored, along with the need for public policies and cross-sector cooperation. The proper use of cigarette butts reduces pollution and supports sustainable urban waste practices.

Author Biography

Jose Manuel Espinoza González, Universidad Estatal a Distancia (UNED). San José, Costa Rica

Estudiante de Licenciatura en Criminalística, Universidad Estatal a Distancia (UNED). San José, Costa Rica

References

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Published

2025-12-11

How to Cite

Jose Manuel Espinoza González. (2025). Cigarette butts: more than waste, a toxic cellulose acetate residue. Biocenosis, 36(2), 93–98. https://doi.org/10.22458/rb.v36i2.6278