In the land Down Under, a new wave of social consciousness is sweeping across the nation, and Australians are making it clear that there’s one particular behaviour they’re no longer willing to overlook: littering, especially when it comes to cigarette butts.
The issue was recently brought to the forefront when an image surfaced on social media, depicting a pile of discarded cigarette butts on a Sydney street. The sight was enough to infuriate the online community, with one user, Big and Delicious, expressing a sentiment many of us can relate to: ‘Can I slap these people when I see them do this or is it still illegal even if they’re pure scum. The bin and ashtray is five metres away.’
This frustration is not unfounded. In New South Wales, cigarette butts are among the most frequently littered items, and the penalties for such environmental disregard can be steep, ranging from $250 to $2200 for general littering, according to Sydney Criminal Lawyers. Aggravated littering, which includes discarding dangerous items like needles and lit cigarette butts, can incur fines up to $3300.
The outcry isn’t limited to non-smokers either. Even those who partake in the habit are disgusted by the negligence of their peers. ‘Even as someone who smokes, it’s disgusting. As you said, only a few metres to the bin. Even still, just put it out and take it with you till you find a bin. Simples,’ one social media user commented.
The conversation has sparked a broader discussion on how to effectively combat littering. Some suggest adopting stringent littering laws akin to those in Singapore, where on-the-spot fines and mandatory community service for offenders help keep the streets clean. Others humorously propose a vigilante approach, with one user joking, ‘Wear a Batman costume and it should be fine.’
Despite the levity, the issue is a serious one. Littering not only tarnishes the natural beauty of Australia’s urban and rural landscapes but also poses a significant threat to wildlife and contributes to broader environmental problems.
The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare’s recent findings show that less than 10 per cent of Australians smoke daily, and vaping has tripled between 2019 and 2023. Dr Gabrielle Phillips from AIHW notes, ‘Smoking is the leading cause of preventable disease and death in Australia, so it’s encouraging that we continue to see a decrease in the use of tobacco by people in Australia.’
As smoking rates decline, it’s time for the remnants of this habit to disappear from our streets as well. The message from Australians is clear: it’s not just about quitting smoking; it’s about quitting littering. It’s a call to action for all smokers to be responsible and dispose of their butts properly.
What are your thoughts on this issue? Have you noticed an improvement in your area, or is littering still a problem? What do you think could be done to encourage better waste disposal practices? Share your experiences and ideas for solutions in the comments below.
Also read: Cashing in on recycling: Why Sydney’s seniors are turning to rubbish for cash
