World Nature Conservation Day 2023: The Growing Threat of E-cigarette Waste on People and Planet – Times of India

E-cigarettes and vapes, initially perceived as harmless and trendy alternatives to traditional smoking, have turned out to be a growing menace. Dr. Swati Chakraborty, an Environmental Consultant and Activist at Cantonment Board – Government Of India, highlights that e-cigarette waste introduces toxic chemicals, heavy metals, and nicotine salts into the environment. These pollutants find their way into waterways, soil, and pose dangers to wildlife, including street dogs and other animals. With the increasing usage of e-cigarettes, the risk of environmental pollution and harm to biodiversity is on the rise.
The hazardous nature of e-cigarettes stems from the presence of nicotine and battery content. Nicotine not only poses health risks to humans, but it also harms wildlife and contaminates soil and water when disposed of improperly. The batteries in e-cigarettes can contribute to electronic waste if not adequately managed, adding to the mounting environmental burden.

Medical experts have been closely monitoring the health effects of e-cigarettes. Dr. Shahnawaz Pukait, the Medical Superintendent of Techno India DAMA Hospital, reveals that e-cigarettes can lead to asthma, chronic obstructive airway disease, and other adverse effects such as abdominal pain, headache, and nausea. Additionally, an outbreak of vaping-related lung illnesses was reported in some Western countries in 2019. While e-cigarettes may have fewer carcinogens than traditional cigarettes, they contain heavy metals, formaldehyde, and other toxins that can still harm consumers’ health.
Dr. Sujoy Banik, a Senior Consultant from Disha Eye Hospitals, sheds light on the ocular health risks associated with e-cigarette use. These devices can cause disturbances in oxygen levels of the eyes, leading to dry eye problems, macular degeneration, cataracts, and glaucoma.
Apart from the health risks, the environmental impact of e-cigarette waste cannot be overlooked. These devices leak harmful metals like cadmium, chromium, and nickel, contributing to environmental pollution. The unused nicotine from discarded e-cigarettes can also pose a threat to the ecosystem.
Furthermore, the use of e-cigarettes has become a matter of concern due to its influence on young people. E-cigarettes not only adversely affect the lungs of adults but also hinder brain development in fetuses. This trend encourages more young individuals to take up smoking, compounding the existing challenges in tobacco control.
As the world commemorates World Nature Conservation Day, it is imperative for governments, industries, and individuals to address the rising threat of e-cigarette waste. Strict regulations on the disposal of e-cigarettes, sustainable waste management practices, and awareness campaigns about the harmful effects of these products are essential steps to protect both people and the planet. Only through concerted efforts can we sustainably conserve nature and ensure a healthier future for all.