To promote sustainable development and create a more beautiful environment, the Ministry of Environment today (12th) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Junior Chamber International Taiwan (JCI Taiwan) for the initiative “No Cigarette Butts on the Ground, A More Beautiful Environment”! The aim is to work together through public education and awareness, promote environmental responsibility among businesses, and implement cigarette butt reduction efforts to improve public spaces and create cleaner, healthier living environments. According to surveys, cigarette butts are the most common type of waste found on global coastlines, and the number of cigarette butts found on Taiwan’s coasts has been rising year after year. In 2024, cigarette butts moved up from 4th to 3rd place among top coastal pollutants, highlighting the growing severity of the issue. Minister of Environment, Dr. Chi-Ming Peng, stated that while a single cigarette butt may seem insignificant, its improper disposal has far-reaching impacts on urban aesthetics, the environment, and ecosystems. Over 36.2 billion cigarettes are sold annually in Taiwan. If one-quarter of these are improperly discarded, it means over 9 billion cigarette butts pollute the environment each year. Cigarette butts not only tarnish cityscapes but also release over 4,000 harmful chemical substances and are made from non-degradable plastics, primarily cellulose acetate. These eventually break down into microplastics and enter the food chain, posing threats to human health.

Minister Peng emphasized that beyond government efforts, support and action from all sectors of society are critical. In particular, civil organizations play a vital role in promoting environmental awareness and implementing practical measures. This collaboration mobilizes the influence of JCI Taiwan’s 14 regional branches, 153 local chapters, and over 7,200 members nationwide to jointly promote and realize the vision of “No Cigarette Butts on the Ground.” The campaign also encourages businesses to voluntarily install cigarette butt collection facilities at suitable locations and maintain cleanliness in their surroundings to reduce pollution. This effort aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and SDG 14 (Life Below Water).

The Ministry of Environment once again calls on all smokers: “Please fully extinguish your cigarette! Don’t smoke while walking. Take responsibility for your cigarette butts—dispose of them in a cigarette bin or trash can!”

Proper disposal of cigarette waste ensures a cleaner, more beautiful city for everyone.

This collaboration with JCI Taiwan marks a shared commitment to environmental protection. Together, we strive toward the vision of “Fewer Butts, Cleaner Environment,” building a healthier and more beautiful city through collective action.