Syracuse Sun

In recognition of Earth Day, the Central New York Regional Center for Tobacco Health Systems at St. Joseph’s Health highlights the environmental impact of tobacco products. While the health risks of tobacco use are widely known, its environmental effects, such as waste and pollution, also pose significant concerns.

Tobacco waste includes various pollutants such as plastic cigarette butts, e-cigarette batteries, and cartridges, along with hazardous nicotine residues, chemicals, metals, and plastic wrappings. These pollutants are concentrated in areas where tobacco products are sold and used.

"Tobacco use doesn't just harm individual health—it also leaves a lasting scar on our environment," stated Kristen Richardson, RN, CTTS, Director of Community Engagement and Director of the CNY Regional Center for Tobacco Health Systems at St. Joseph’s Health. "From the plastic waste of cigarette butts to the toxic chemicals leaching into our soil and waterways, the environmental toll is staggering. On Earth Day, we must recognize that reducing tobacco use is a critical step toward protecting our planet."

The CNY Regional Center for Tobacco Health Systems operates in ten counties across Central New York—Broome, Chenango, Cortland, Jefferson, Lewis, Madison, Oneida, Onondaga, Oswego, and Tioga. It collaborates with healthcare organizations to apply best practices in treating tobacco use, as part of a statewide network supported by the New York State Department of Health’s Tobacco Control Program. This network strives to reduce tobacco-related harms and promote public health.

The center also supports environmental strategies to reduce tobacco waste, such as advocating for biodegradable packaging, promoting recyclable materials for tobacco products, and raising awareness about responsible disposal.

Resources for quitting smoking or vaping are available through the New York State Smokers’ Quitline at 1-866-NY-QUITS (1-866-697-8487) or online at www.nysmokefree.com. More information on the environmental impact of tobacco can be found at Tobacco Free New York State – Tobacco and the Environment.