Cigarette filters, also known as "butts," are a significant source of litter and environmental pollution. These non-biodegradable filters contain harmful chemicals that can leach into our soil and waterways, posing a threat to wildlife and public health. We believe it is time for the state of Maine to take action by requiring all cigarette filters, tobacco or otherwise, sold within our borders to be biodegradable.

According to the Ocean Conservancy's International Coastal Cleanup report, cigarette butts have consistently been the most collected item during beach cleanups worldwide for over three decades. In 2019 alone, volunteers picked up more than 5 million cigarette butts from beaches and coastal areas across the globe.

Maine's beautiful coastlines are not immune to this problem. Our local communities spend valuable resources cleaning up these discarded filters from parks, streets, and water bodies. Not only does this litter negatively impact our environment aesthetically; it also poses serious risks.

Cigarette filters are primarily made of cellulose acetate—a type of plastic that takes several years or even decades to decompose fully. As they break down into smaller microplastic particles over time, they become easily ingested by marine life such as fish and seabirds. These microplastics can then enter our food chain when we consume seafood.

By mandating that all cigarette filters sold in Maine be biodegradable, we can significantly reduce the amount of plastic pollution in our state while protecting both wildlife and human health.

Several countries have already taken steps towards addressing this issue. For instance:

1) France has passed legislation requiring tobacco companies to produce cigarettes with biodegradable filters starting in 2023.
2) The European Union is considering implementing similar regulations across its member states.
3) California has introduced a bill that would prohibit the sale of cigarettes with non-biodegradable filters.

Maine has always been at the forefront of environmental conservation, and it's time for us to lead once again. By requiring all cigarette filters to be biodegradable, we can set an example for other states and make a significant impact on reducing litter and plastic pollution in our communities.

We urge the Maine State Legislature to introduce and pass legislation that mandates all cigarette filters, tobacco or otherwise, sold within our state to be biodegradable. Together, let's protect our environment, wildlife, and public health by taking this crucial step towards a cleaner future.

Thank you for your support in making Maine a leader in sustainable practices.