Six-Point Critical Analysis of Current Event - Plastic use of cigarettes

 

1. Exploratory                                

Probe basic facts and knowledge found in the readings. (What research evidence supports _________? Type up several facts and basic knowledge from the readings. Relate this to what you find in other resources, prior activities for stronger scores.))

The ecology is seriously threatened by e-cigarette trash and used cigarette filters. The filters are constructed of cellulose acetate, a plastic fiber that can take years to break down and produce microplastics that are detrimental to marine life. They first gained popularity in the 1960s as a way to minimize tar and nicotine. According to scientific tests, cigarettes also contain harmful substances that can kill fish. Many e-cigarettes, on the other hand, are constructed of hard plastic and circuitry and present a disposal problem since they include both electronic parts and nicotine, which places them in a murky region. Concerns concerning the consequences of e-cigarettes on the environment have arisen as e-cigarette use has increased along with the quantity of trash they create. The effects of e-cigarette waste on the environment are only starting to be studied, and plastic pods are already piling up on beaches, leading to calls for more responsible use of plastic in all forms.

 

2. Diagnostic                                   

Probe motives or causes.  (Why? (Tell your reader why this occurs. Explain the causes in detail.))

The causes of cigarette and e-cigarette waste in the environment can be traced back to the widespread use and consumption of these products. Cigarettes have been in use for centuries, and the advent of the cigarette rolling machine in the 1800s greatly increased production and popularity. As the health impacts of smoking became clear in the mid-20th century, tobacco companies scrambled to find solutions, one of which was the introduction of cigarette filters made of cellulose acetate, a type of plastic fiber that remains the polymer of choice today. However, filters can take years to degrade and break down into microplastics, which pose a growing hazard in waterways and oceans. The rise of e-cigarettes, with their hard plastic components, has added to the environmental burden. The use of e-cigarettes has skyrocketed in recent years, and the mix of electronic components and nicotine in these devices puts them in a grey area for disposal. The motives for using these products are complex and varied, including addiction, social and cultural factors, and marketing by the tobacco and vaping industries. However, the resulting waste and environmental harm is an unintended consequence that demands attention and solutions.

 

3. Cause and Effect                        

Causal relationships between ideas, actions, or events. (If __________ occurs, what happens?)

If cigarette butts and e-cigarettes are not disposed of properly, they can have negative effects on the environment. Cigarette filters, made of non-biodegradable materials, can take years to degrade and break down into microplastics that pollute waterways and oceans. Additionally, the toxic materials found in cigarette butts can be harmful to marine life, with even one butt in a liter of water being enough to kill half the fish in a laboratory setting. Similarly, e-cigarettes, with their plastic and electronic components, pose a disposal challenge as they are considered both hazardous and electronic waste. As the use of e-cigarettes has increased, so has the amount of waste they generate, with plastic pods piling up on beaches and in parking lots.

 

 

4. Priority                                        

Seek to identify the most important issue. (What is the most important issue?)

The most important issue highlighted in the article is the impact of cigarette and e-cigarette waste on the environment, specifically the accumulation of plastic waste and the toxic effects it has on marine life. It is a growing concern that needs to be addressed by individuals, manufacturers, and policymakers alike.

 

 

5. Application                                 

Probe for relationships and connect theory to practice. (How does this apply to you? How is this related to culture as we have studied so far?)

Waste from cigarettes and e-cigarettes affects not just the environment but also society and culture. More education and understanding about the detrimental effects of these behaviors on the environment and public health are urgently needed, as seen by the increase in smoking and vaping and the trash they cause. Additionally, it emphasizes the necessity of more environmentally friendly options and ethical trash disposal techniques.

By deciding to stop smoking or vaping, disposing of our trash correctly, and supporting more environmentally friendly laws and practices, everyone of us can make a difference. As a society, we must change our cultural norms away from destructive behaviors and toward decisions that are more ethical and sustainable.

In the broader context of culture, this issue highlights the tension between individual choice and collective responsibility. While it is ultimately up to individuals to choose whether to smoke or vape, the negative consequences of these choices affect not only the individual but also the environment and society. Therefore, it is important for cultural values and norms to prioritize sustainability and responsibility for the greater good.

6. Critical                                         

Analyze how this challenges your thinking/assumptions. (How did this change your thinking? Did it? Why?)

Based on the article, it challenges the assumptions and common beliefs about the environmental impact of cigarette waste. Many people may not realize the extent of the harm caused by cigarette butts and e-cigarette waste on the environment and marine life. This information may change people's attitudes and behaviors towards smoking and proper disposal of cigarette and e-cigarette waste. It also highlights the need for stricter regulations and better waste management practices to reduce the impact of tobacco-related waste on the environment.

Reference:

Root, Tik. “Cigarette Butts Are Toxic Plastic Pollution. Should They Be Banned?” Environment, National Geographic, 3 May 2021, https://www.nationalgeographic.com/environment/article/cigarettes-story-of-plastic?loggedin=true&rnd=1680721386079.