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Howlader M, Selim A, Shohan MH, Shuvo SNA, Al-Humaidi JY, Islam MM, Shaibur MR, Althomali RH, Akter N, Afrin S, Sultana T, Singha SK, Betto ZS, Rahman MM. Exploring cigarette butts pollution in Saint Martin Island: A marine protected area. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 203:116439. [PMID: 38718549 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
Saint Martin Island (SMI), the only coral island in Bangladesh, is located in the Bay of Bengal and has been identified as a marine protected area (MPA). Littering cigarette butts (CBs) waste in an ecologically sensitive environment can have numerous adverse effects. The purpose of this research is to investigate the abundance and density of CBs in SMI and to assess the pollution status using the Cigarette Butt Pollution Index (CBPI). This study is conducted based on the visual survey method in the three types of land use zones of SMI. During the peak season, the investigation was carried out from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in December 2023. A total of 4481 CBs item were counted, and the density ranged from 0.37 to 1.76 m-2 with an average value of 0.99 m-2 across 12 sampling campaigns. The highest density was observed at service zones, and the fishing zones had the lowest density. The calculated CBPI values revealed that 75 % of the sampling stations were in the "severe pollution" while 25 % were classified as "high pollution" status, underscoring the prevalence of hazardous CBs across most areas of SMI. To tackle these issues requires regulatory measures, public awareness initiatives, and community involvement. Effective waste management and eco-friendly product promotion can help reduce CBs pollution risks in marine protected islands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masum Howlader
- Environment and Resource Analysis Center Ltd., Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh.
| | - Abu Selim
- International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development, Kathmandu 3226, Nepal
| | - Mobin Hossain Shohan
- Department of Aquaculture, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh 2202, Bangladesh
| | | | - Jehan Y Al-Humaidi
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia.
| | | | - Molla Rahman Shaibur
- Department of Environmental Science and Technology, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore 7408, Bangladesh
| | - Raed H Althomali
- Department of Chemistry, College of Art and Science, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Wadi Al-Dawasir 11991, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nurunnahar Akter
- Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore 7408, Bangladesh
| | | | - Tania Sultana
- Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Kolkata 411008, India
| | - Santush Kumar Singha
- Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, American International University Bangladesh, Dhaka 1229, Bangladesh
| | - Zaren Subah Betto
- Department of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh 2202, Bangladesh
| | - Mohammed M Rahman
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
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2
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Shah G, Bhatt U, Singh H, Kumar D, Sharma J, Strasser RJ, Soni V. Ecotoxicological assessment of cigarette butts on morphology and photosynthetic potential of Azolla pinnata. BMC PLANT BIOLOGY 2024; 24:300. [PMID: 38637728 PMCID: PMC11061998 DOI: 10.1186/s12870-024-04991-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Cigarette butts (CBs) have become the most ubiquitous form of anthropogenic litter globally. CBs contain various hazardous chemicals that persist in the environment for longer period. These substances are susceptible to leaching into the environment through waterways. The recent study was aimed to evaluate the effects of disposed CBs on the growth and development of Azolla pinnata, an aquatic plant. It was found that after a span of 6 days, the root length, surface area, number of fronds, and photosynthetic efficacy of plant were considerably diminished on the exposure of CBs (concentrations 0 to 40). The exposure of CBs led to a decrease in the FM, FV/F0, and φP0, in contrast, the φD0 increased in response to CBs concentration. Moreover, ABS/CSm, TR0/CSm, and ET0/CSm displayed a negative correlation with CB-induced chemical stress. The performance indices were also decreased (p-value ≤ 0.05) at the highest concentration of CBs. LD50 and LD90 represent the lethal dose, obtained value for LD50 is 20.30 CBs and LD90 is 35.26 CBs through probit analysis. Our results demonstrate that the CBs cause irreversible damage of photosynthetic machinery in plants and also reflect the efficacy of chlorophyll a fluorescence analysis and JIP test for assessing the toxicity of CBs in plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Garishma Shah
- Plant Bioenergetics and Biochemistry Lab, Mohanlal Sukhadia University, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India, 313001
| | - Upma Bhatt
- Plant Bioenergetics and Biochemistry Lab, Mohanlal Sukhadia University, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India, 313001
| | - Hanwant Singh
- Plant Bioenergetics and Biochemistry Lab, Mohanlal Sukhadia University, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India, 313001
| | - Deepak Kumar
- Plant Bioenergetics and Biochemistry Lab, Mohanlal Sukhadia University, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India, 313001
| | - Jyotshana Sharma
- Plant Bioenergetics and Biochemistry Lab, Mohanlal Sukhadia University, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India, 313001
| | - Reto J Strasser
- Plant Bioenergetics Laboratory, University of Geneva, Jussy, 1254, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Vineet Soni
- Plant Bioenergetics and Biochemistry Lab, Mohanlal Sukhadia University, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India, 313001.
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3
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Everaert S, Schoeters G, Lardon F, Janssens A, Van Larebeke N, Raquez JM, Bervoets L, Spanoghe P. Protecting public health and the environment: towards a general ban on cellulose acetate cigarette filters in the European Union. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1282655. [PMID: 38026410 PMCID: PMC10644169 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1282655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
After the establishment of a causal relationship between tobacco use and cancer in the 1950s, cellulose acetate filters were introduced with the claim to reduce the adverse health impact of unfiltered cigarettes. Often perceived to be more pleasant and healthy, filters encouraged smoking. However, filtered cigarettes are more deeply inhaled to obtain the same nicotine demand while altered combustion releases more tobacco-specific nitrosamines. The increasing use of cigarette filter ventilation is associated with a sharp rise in lung adenocarcinomas in recent decades. While not preventing adverse health effects, a global environmental problem has been created due to the non-biodegradable filter litter, causing ecotoxicological effects and the spread of microplastics. Recently, the Belgian Superior Health Council advised policymakers to ban cigarette filters as single-use plastics at both national and European levels. This article outlines the arguments used to justify this plea (human health and environment), the expected effects of a filter ban, as well as the public reception and reactions of the tobacco industry. The specific context of the European Union is discussed including the revision of the Single-Use Plastics Directive, affording a new opportunity to ban plastic filters. This perspective article aims to fuel the momentum and cooperation among member states for this purpose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stijn Everaert
- Chemical Environmental Factors Group, Superior Health Council, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Greet Schoeters
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Filip Lardon
- Center for Oncological Research (CORE), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Annelies Janssens
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, University Hospital Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Nicolas Van Larebeke
- Department of Radiotherapy and Experimental Cancerology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Analytical, Environmental and Geo-Chemistry, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jean-Marie Raquez
- Polymer and Composite Materials Department, University of Mons, Mons, Belgium
| | - Lieven Bervoets
- Department of Biology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Pieter Spanoghe
- Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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4
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Vanapalli KR, Sharma HB, Anand S, Ranjan VP, Singh H, Dubey BK, Mohanty B. Cigarettes butt littering: The story of the world's most littered item from the perspective of pollution, remedial actions, and policy measures. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 453:131387. [PMID: 37080035 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.131387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Cigarettes butt (CB) is one of the most littered items on the planet. This paper critically analyzes the factors responsible for CB littering, and associated environmental ramifications, and reviews all the possible technical, behavioural, and policy-based solutions. Even while smoking has declined globally, middle-income nations have seen an increase in consumption, which may be related to increased affordability and a lack of public awareness. The smokers' individual beliefs and habits, environmental ignorance, covert littering as a result of social taboos associated with smoking, and behavioural gaps between intention and action might all be contributing factors to CBs' littering behaviour. The low biodegradability of cellulose acetate filters and toxic chemical leaching from CBs are the most important aspects of CB environmental toxicity. The small size and low economic value of CB contribute to the inefficiencies of current waste collection and management systems. The current research on CB valorisation includes fired-clay bricks, asphalt concrete, biofilms, sound absorber, cellulose pulp, pesticides, and insecticides as downstream mitigation strategies. This study highlights the urgent need for policymakers to enforce regulations enabling innovative cigarette designs, the creation of deposit-refund schemes, extended producer responsibility and stringent waste collection mechanisms. Adopting gentler marketing strategies and non-confrontational behavioural nudges could result in an overall reduction in CB pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kumar Raja Vanapalli
- Department of Civil Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Mizoram, Aizawl, Mizoram 796012, India; School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, West Bengal 721302, India
| | - Hari Bhakta Sharma
- Department of Civil Engineering, Sikkim Manipal Institute of Technology, Rangpo, Sikkim 737136, India; Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, West Bengal 721302, India.
| | - Shaivya Anand
- Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, West Bengal 721302, India
| | - Ved Prakash Ranjan
- Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, West Bengal 721302, India
| | - Hemant Singh
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, West Bengal 721302, India
| | - Brajesh K Dubey
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, West Bengal 721302, India; Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, West Bengal 721302, India.
| | - Bijayananda Mohanty
- Department of Civil Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Mizoram, Aizawl, Mizoram 796012, India
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5
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Mušič B, Jemec Kokalj A, Sever Škapin A. Influence of Weathering on the Degradation of Cellulose Acetate Microplastics Obtained from Used Cigarette Butts. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:2751. [PMID: 37376396 DOI: 10.3390/polym15122751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Cellulose acetate is used in many applications, including for cigarette filters. Unfortunately, unlike cellulose, its (bio)degradability is under question, yet it often ends up uncontrolled in the natural environment. The main purpose of this study is to compare the effects of weathering on two types of cigarette filter (classic filters and newer filters that have more recently arrived on the market) following their use and disposal in nature. Microplastics were prepared from polymer parts of used (classic and heated tobacco products-HTP) cigarettes and artificially aged. TG/DTA, FTIR, and SEM analyses were performed both before and after the aging process. Newer tobacco products contain an additional film made of a poly(lactic acid) polymer which, like cellulose acetate, burdens the environment and poses a risk to the ecosystem. Numerous studies have been conducted on the disposal and recycling of cigarette butts and cigarette butt extracts, revealing alarming data that have also influenced the decisions of the EU, who addressed the disposal of tobacco products in the EU Directive (EU) 2019/904. Despite this, there is still no systematic analysis in the literature evaluating the impact of weathering (i.e., accelerated aging) on the degradation of cellulose acetate in classic cigarettes compared with that in newer tobacco products that have recently appeared on the market. This is of particular interest given that the latter have been promoted as being healthier and environmentally friendly. The results show that in cellulose acetate cigarette filters the particle size decreased after accelerated aging. Also, the thermal analysis revealed differences in the behavior of the aged samples, while the FTIR spectra showed no shifts in the position of the peaks. Organic substances break down under UV light, which can be seen by measuring the color change. The PLA film was found to be more stable than cellulose acetate under the influence of UV light.
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Affiliation(s)
- Branka Mušič
- Department of Materials, Slovenian National Building and Civil Engineering Institute, Dimičeva ulica 12, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Anita Jemec Kokalj
- Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Večna Pot 111, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Andrijana Sever Škapin
- Department of Materials, Slovenian National Building and Civil Engineering Institute, Dimičeva ulica 12, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Polymer Technology-FTPO, Ozare 19, SI-2380 Slovenj Gradec, Slovenia
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6
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Novotny TE, Hamzai L. Cellulose acetate cigarette filter is hazardous to human health. Tob Control 2023:tc-2023-057925. [PMID: 37072169 DOI: 10.1136/tc-2023-057925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2023]
Abstract
The World No Tobacco Day 2022 theme emphasised tobacco's adverse environmental effects, including through agriculture, manufacturing, distribution, use and the disposal of tobacco product waste. A main concern regarding this toxic waste is the cigarette filter, which is attached to nearly all commercial cigarettes and is predominantly made from a plant-based plastic (cellulose acetate). Laboratory studies have demonstrated the chemical toxicity of discarded cigarette butts, and there is growing public concern regarding environmental plastic pollution resulting from single-use cellulose acetate filters. Important considerations are whether the filter has any protective role against the harms of smoking and whether it should be regulated as a plastic environmental pollutant. There is persistent misunderstanding among smokers and policy makers about the implied value of the cigarette filter. The cellulose acetate filter is simply a marketing tool that encourages smoking initiation and reduces intentions to quit smoking. This is because it makes smoking easier and implies added safety through the presumed filtration of inhaled smoke. The sale of filtered cigarettes should be prohibited to protect public health and the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas E Novotny
- School of Public Health, San Diego State University, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Laila Hamzai
- School of Public Health, San Diego State University, San Diego, California, USA
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7
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Shah G, Bhatt U, Soni V. Cigarette: an unsung anthropogenic evil in the environment. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:59151-59162. [PMID: 37055684 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-26867-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
The world's population is growing steadily, and this trend is mirrored by a sharp rise in the number of people who smoke cigarettes. Instead of properly disposing of their cigarette waste, most people simply toss them aside, leading to serious environmental consequences. According to previous statistics, in 2012 alone, 6.25 trillion cigarettes were consumed by 967 million chain smokers. Past studies have shown that up to 30% of global litter is made up of cigarette waste. These discarded cigarette butts are non-biodegradable and contain over 7000 toxicants such as benzene, 1,3-butadiene, nitrosamine ketone, N-Nitrosonornicotine, nicotine, formaldehyde, acrolein, ammonia, aniline, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and various heavy metals. These toxicants have a negative impact on the habitats of wildlife and can cause serious health problems such as cancer, respiratory disorders, cardiac issues, and sexual dysfunction. Although it is still unclear how littered cigarettes affect plant growth, germination, and development, it is clear that they have the potential to harm plant health. Just like single-use plastic, trashed cigarette butts are a critical new rising form of pollution that requires scientific attention for effective recycling and disposal management. It is important to properly dispose of cigarette waste to protect the environment and wildlife, as well as to prevent harm to human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Garishma Shah
- Plant Bioenergetics and Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Botany, Mohanlal Sukhadia University, Udaipur, 313001, Rajasthan, India
| | - Upma Bhatt
- Plant Bioenergetics and Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Botany, Mohanlal Sukhadia University, Udaipur, 313001, Rajasthan, India
| | - Vineet Soni
- Plant Bioenergetics and Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Botany, Mohanlal Sukhadia University, Udaipur, 313001, Rajasthan, India.
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8
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Green DS, Almroth BC, Altman R, Bergmann M, Gündoğdu S, Warrier AK, Boots B, Walker TR, Krieger A, Syberg K. Time to kick the butt of the most common litter item in the world: Ban cigarette filters. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 865:161256. [PMID: 36587695 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.161256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Cigarette filters offer no public health benefits, are single-use plastics (cellulose acetate) and are routinely littered. Filters account for a significant proportion of plastic litter worldwide, requiring considerable public funds to remove, and are a source of microplastics. Used cigarette filters can leech toxic chemicals and pose an ecological risk to both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Bottom-up measures, such as focusing on consumer behaviour, are ineffective and we need to impose top-down solutions (i.e., bans) if we are to reduce the prevalence of this number one litter item. Banning filters offers numerous ecological, socioeconomic, and public health benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dannielle S Green
- Applied Ecology Research Group, School of Life Sciences, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge CB1 1PT, United Kingdom
| | - Bethanie Carney Almroth
- Dept. of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Box 463, 405 30 Göteborg, Sweden
| | - Rebecca Altman
- Independent Scholar, Providence, RI, United States of America
| | - Melanie Bergmann
- HGF-MPG Group for Deep-Sea Ecology and Technology, Alfred Wegener Institute Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, 27568 Bremerhaven, Germany
| | - Sedat Gündoğdu
- Faculty of Fisheries, Cukurova University, 01330 Adana, Turkey
| | - Anish Kumar Warrier
- Centre for Climate Studies, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, Karnataka, India
| | - Bas Boots
- Applied Ecology Research Group, School of Life Sciences, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge CB1 1PT, United Kingdom
| | - Tony R Walker
- School for Resource and Environmental Studies, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | | | - Kristian Syberg
- Dept. of Science and Environment, Roskilde University, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark.
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Aguilera MA, Rojas A, Bulleri F, Thiel M. Breakwaters as habitats for synanthropes: Spatial associations of vertebrates and vegetation with anthropogenic litter. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 862:160753. [PMID: 36513231 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.160753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Urban infrastructures can provide 'novel' habitats for marine and terrestrial animals and plants, enhancing their ability to adapt to urban environments. In particular, coastal infrastructures characterized by a complex three-dimensional morphology, such as breakwaters, could provide species refuges and food. We investigated the role of breakwaters in providing habitat for vertebrates and plants, and the influence of anthropogenic litter in regulating the value of these structures as habitat. We sampled vertebrate and plant species and quantified the amount of anthropogenic litter on breakwaters and adjacent rocky habitats at several sites in three different countries (Italy, Spain and Chile). We found breakwaters to accumulate more litter items (e.g. especially plastics) than adjacent rocky habitats by means of their large-scale (i.e., 1 m) structural complexity. Birds, which used the artificial infrastructure as transitory habitat, reached similar abundances in breakwaters compared with adjacent rocky platforms. In contrast, synanthropic mammal species, such as Rattus norvegicus and feral cats, were slightly more frequent on breakwaters and appeared to use them as permanent habitat. Plants were frequent in the upper zone of breakwaters and, even though many macrophyte species can trap litter, their cover correlated negatively with anthropogenic litter density. Therefore, breakwaters provide either transitory or permanent habitats for different species, despite functioning as a sink for anthropogenic litter. Thus, new infrastructure should be designed with lower structural complexity in their supralittoral zone limiting the proliferation of synanthropic species. In addition, restricting public access to sensitive areas and enforcing littering fines could enhance the ecological value of these novel habitats by reducing the benefits to pest species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moisés A Aguilera
- Departamento de Ciencias, Facultad de Artes Liberales, Universidad Adolfo Ibáñez, Diagonal Las Torres, 2640 Peñalolén, Santiago, Chile.
| | - Ariel Rojas
- Departamento de Calidad y Laboratorio, Empresa AQUADEUS S.L. Crta. El ballestero, Km. 2, 02340 Robledo, Albacete, Spain
| | - Fabio Bulleri
- Dipartimento di Biologia, University of Pisa, CoNISMa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Martin Thiel
- Departamento de Biología Marina, Universidad Católica del Norte, Larrondo, 1281 Coquimbo, Chile; Center for Ecology and Sustainable Management of Oceanic Islands, Facultad de Ciencias del Mar, Universidad Católica del Norte, Coquimbo, Chile; Centro de Estudios Avanzados en Zonas Áridas (CEAZA), Coquimbo, Chile
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10
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Conradi M, Sánchez-Moyano JE. Toward a sustainable circular economy for cigarette butts, the most common waste worldwide on the coast. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 847:157634. [PMID: 35905959 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.157634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
The circular economy is based on the maximum use of resources by reducing, reusing, and recycling the elements used. Currently, the items littered most frequently in the world are cigarettes butts (CB) as these debris are freely disseminated in the marine habitat, they are generally difficult to collect and very complex to recycle. Litter CB is a great social problem that generates excessive economic costs and serious environmental problems. CB is also not biodegradable and highly toxic to marine organisms and presents a distinctive mixture of physical and chemical contamination. However, little research has been done on the management and recycling of this dangerous waste. Several proposals have been made to incorporate this waste into high-volume articles of direct production or recycling, but collection logistics are lacking since the current system is inefficient, in addition to the poor environmental behaviour of citizens. This work presents a current synthesis of the CB problem from all its possible aspects in order to have a global vision of the life cycle of the CB, indicating both the known and the gaps in the knowledge of each of them, and intends to give a general outline of the steps to follow to try to end such a worrying problem at the global level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mercedes Conradi
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Biology, University of Sevilla, Av. Reina Mercedes 6, 41012 Sevilla, Spain
| | - J Emilio Sánchez-Moyano
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Biology, University of Sevilla, Av. Reina Mercedes 6, 41012 Sevilla, Spain.
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11
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Ghasemi A, Golbini Mofrad MM, Parseh I, Hassani G, Mohammadi H, Hayati R, Alinejad N. Cigarette butts as a super challenge in solid waste management: a review of current knowledge. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:51269-51280. [PMID: 35612701 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-20893-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Filtered cigarette is the most common type of tobacco used and cigarette butt is the most important environmental consequence of smoking. This study aimed to investigate the cigarette butt management and identify future needs to improve the current situation. The results showed that cigarette butts are the most abundant and widespread hazardous waste in the world. The current form of cigarette butt management has inferior performance that faced waste management systems with serious challenges. The results showed that reducing the littering rate and recycling are known as basic strategies in the management of this hazardous waste. Future studies should focus on reducing cigarette butt pollution and the amount of pollutant leakage from them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afsaneh Ghasemi
- Department of Public Health, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Mohammad Mehdi Golbini Mofrad
- Environmental Research Center, Research Institute for Primordial of Non-Communicable Disease Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Health, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Health, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Iman Parseh
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Behbahan Faculty of Medical Sciences, Behbahan, Iran
| | - Ghassem Hassani
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran
| | | | - Ramin Hayati
- Department of Public Health, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran.
| | - Navid Alinejad
- Department of Public Health, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
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12
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Henderson GE, Grant ML, Lavers JL. Comparing methods for monitoring nest debris using silver gulls as a case study. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 177:113482. [PMID: 35255346 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.113482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Global plastics production is increasing exponentially and contributing to significant pollution of the marine environment. Of particular concern is ingestion and entanglement risks for marine wildlife, including when items such as rope are incorporated into nest structures. These events are commonly documented using photographic and visual surveys, and each presents a number of challenges and benefits for species conservation and monitoring. Here we compare an invasive (i.e., removing debris from nests) and non-invasive (i.e., photographs) sampling method for quantifying nest debris using the silver gull (Chroicocephalus novahollandiae) as a case study. Overall, 17 debris items were detected in 9% of gull nests. While the use of photographs to monitor nest debris is increasingly popular, the invasive method detected one additional debris item not identified using photography. We therefore recommend caution for nest debris and other monitoring programs where identifying small or cryptic items may require a high level of skill.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle E Henderson
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, 20 Castray Esplanade, Battery Point, Tasmania 7004, Australia
| | - Megan L Grant
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, School Road, Newnham, Tasmania 7248, Australia
| | - Jennifer L Lavers
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, 20 Castray Esplanade, Battery Point, Tasmania 7004, Australia.
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13
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Assessment of the release of metals from cigarette butts into the environment. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0260111. [PMID: 34793538 PMCID: PMC8601425 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0260111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Cigarette butts are known to contain toxic metals which pose a potential threat to the environment and human health. The seriousness of this threat is largely determined by the leachability of these toxic metals when the butts are exposed to aqueous solutions in the environment. The aims of this study were to determine the presence and mobility of toxic and non-toxic elements found in discarded cigarette butts; to relate this mobility to two different contact situations with leaching liquids: tumbling and trampling (batch test) and percolation in a static position (column test); and finally, to verify possible variations in solubility by simulating different environmental systems. Five leachants with different pH values were used to simulate various environmental conditions The concentrations of the solubilized metals were determined by inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES) and inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). CH3COOH pH 2.5 showed the greatest capacity to dissolve many elements. On the contrary, weakly acidic or alkaline environments did not favor the leachability of the elements. The best extraction capacity of the column with respect to the batch is statistically significant (p <0.05) for the elements Al, Fe, Ni and Zn, while the batch for P, Si, S. Pb, Cd, As were not detectable in cigarette butts, while Hg had an average concentration of 0.0502 μg/g. However, Hg was < LOD in all different leachants.
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Akhbarizadeh R, Dobaradaran S, Parhizgar G, Schmidt TC, Mallaki R. Potentially toxic elements leachates from cigarette butts into different types of water: A threat for aquatic environments and ecosystems? ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2021; 202:111706. [PMID: 34284015 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.111706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 07/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Trillions of cigarette butts (CBs) are released into the environment and the leached potentially toxic elements (PTEs) from CBs may contaminate the environments. In this study, the leaching of PTEs including both heavy metals and metalloids (metal(loid)s) from CBs into deionized water (DW), tap water (TW), and seawater (SW) was checked during the different contact times (from 60 min to 60 days). According to the results, PTEs were leached from CBs into different water samples. However, there were no significant differences between leachates in DW and TW samples (p > 0.05). The results of the distribution coefficient indicated the high tendency of most PTEs to enter the liquid phase. The levels of leached PTEs into DW and TW exceeded the standards of surface freshwater to maintain aquatic life. Although the maximum level of leached metal(loid)s into DW, TW, and SW occurred at different times, for each type of water sample no significant differences were found among the levels of most PTEs at various contact times. Based on the results, the levels of leached metal(loid)s from CBs in seawater peak soon after being released into the water, while for the freshwater, they occur after some days. This phenomenon could possibly have short-term and long-term effects on marine and freshwater organisms, respectively. Due to the ability of the dissolved PTEs to integrate into the aquatic/terrestrial food web and threaten human health, some control measures regarding the disposal of CBs are necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Razegheh Akhbarizadeh
- Systems Environmental Health and Energy Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Sina Dobaradaran
- Systems Environmental Health and Energy Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran; Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Faculty of Health and Nutrition, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran; Instrumental Analytical Chemistry and Centre for Water and Environmental Research (ZWU), Faculty of Chemistry, University of Duisburg-Essen, Universitätsstr. 5, Essen, Germany.
| | - Gohar Parhizgar
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Faculty of Health and Nutrition, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Torsten C Schmidt
- Instrumental Analytical Chemistry and Centre for Water and Environmental Research (ZWU), Faculty of Chemistry, University of Duisburg-Essen, Universitätsstr. 5, Essen, Germany; IWW Water Centre, Moritzstraße 26, 45476, Mülheim an der Ruhr, Germany; Centre for Water and Environmental Research (ZWU) Universitätsstraße 5, 45141, Essen, Germany
| | - Reza Mallaki
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Faculty of Health and Nutrition, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
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Green DS, Tongue ADW, Boots B. The ecological impacts of discarded cigarette butts. Trends Ecol Evol 2021; 37:183-192. [PMID: 34690005 DOI: 10.1016/j.tree.2021.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Cigarette butts, one of the most littered items globally, present a unique challenge to ecosystems due to their ubiquity, persistence, and potential for harm. Over 35 studies have examined the toxicity of cigarette butts in biota from aquatic and terrestrial habitats from microbes to mice, but many organisms and habitats have not been tested. Two-thirds of studies are on aquatic organisms, and lethal effects were common. Research on the impacts on terrestrial life is lagging behind. Cigarette butts can affect the growth, behaviour, and reproductive output of individual organisms in all three habitats, but research on wider effects on biodiversity and ecosystem functioning is lacking. Here, we summarise the ecotoxicological concerns and identify important knowledge gaps for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dannielle S Green
- Applied Ecology Research Group, School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge CB1 1PT, UK.
| | - Andrew D W Tongue
- Applied Ecology Research Group, School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge CB1 1PT, UK
| | - Bas Boots
- Applied Ecology Research Group, School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge CB1 1PT, UK
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16
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Mo A, D'Antraccoli M, Bedini G, Ciccarelli D. The role of plants in the face of marine litter invasion: A case study in an Italian protected area. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 169:112544. [PMID: 34111605 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 04/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Mo
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via Derna 1, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Marco D'Antraccoli
- Pisa Botanic Garden and Museum, University of Pisa, via Luca Ghini 13, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Gianni Bedini
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via Derna 1, 56126 Pisa, Italy; CIRSEC, Centre for Climatic Change Impact, University of Pisa, via del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Daniela Ciccarelli
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via Derna 1, 56126 Pisa, Italy; CIRSEC, Centre for Climatic Change Impact, University of Pisa, via del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy
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17
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Torkashvand J, Godini K, Norouzi S, Gholami M, Yeganeh M, Farzadkia M. Effect of cigarette butt on concentration of heavy metals in landfill leachate: health and ecological risk assessment. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SCIENCE & ENGINEERING 2021; 19:483-490. [PMID: 34150252 PMCID: PMC8172723 DOI: 10.1007/s40201-021-00621-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Cigarette butt is known as hazardous waste with numerous toxic and carcinogenic pollutants which impose serious concern for both the environment and human. Heavy metals are recognized as the most common pollutant in the cigarette butts. The concentration of some heavy metals (cadmium, chromium, nickel, lead and zinc) in leachate obtained from the pilot landfill with commingled waste and freshly smoked cigarettes butts were analyzed. The results showed that the addition of 0.76% (in weight) freshly smoked cigarette butts in landfilled waste increased total heavy metal concentration by 4.8%, while addition of 1.3% (in weight) freshly smoked cigarette butts leads to increased 3.72% of total heavy metals concentrations. An increased 10.52% and 3.43% health risk values were found from the leachate of the landfill pilot, where 1% freshly smoked cigarette butt and a littered cigarette were added, respectively. Overall, it can be concluded that cigarette butt landfilling is not recommended for management of this type of waste and is necessary to be replaced with less hazardous ways such as recycling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javad Torkashvand
- Research Center for Environmental Health Technology, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 14665-354 Iran
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR Iran
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Public Health Branch, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kazem Godini
- Environmental Health Research Center, Research Institute for Health Development, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Samira Norouzi
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Faculty of Health, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
| | - Mitra Gholami
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR Iran
| | - Mojtaba Yeganeh
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR Iran
| | - Mahdi Farzadkia
- Research Center for Environmental Health Technology, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 14665-354 Iran
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IR Iran
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18
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Henderson E, Lugo A, Liu X, Continente X, Fernández E, López MJ, Gallus S. Secondhand smoke presence in outdoor areas in 12 European countries. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2021; 195:110806. [PMID: 33515582 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.110806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Secondhand smoke (SHS) causes morbidity and mortality among non-smokers. OBJECTIVES To investigate SHS presence in outdoor areas from 12 European countries and its association with country-level characteristics. METHODS Cross-sectional study performed in 2017-2018 within the TackSHS project. We conducted a face-to-face survey on a representative sample of the population aged 15 years and older from 12 European countries: Bulgaria, England, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Poland, Portugal, Romania, and Spain. Out of 11,902 participants, 8,562 were non-smokers. SHS presence was assessed in selected outdoor areas and defined as respondents viewing someone smoking the last time they visited each setting within the last 6 months. A ranking score for outdoor SHS presence was assigned to each country based on the SHS presence in each setting. We used Spearman's correlation (r) and the Chi-squared tests to assess the relationship between SHS presence and country-level characteristics. RESULTS Except for children's playgrounds (39.5%; 95% confidence interval, CI: 37.6%-41.3%), more than half of non-smokers reported SHS presence in outdoor areas: schools (52.0%; 95%CI: 50.2%-53.7%), stadia (57.4%; 95%CI: 55.4%-59.4%), parks (67.3%; 95%CI: 66.0%-68.5%), hospitals (67.3%; 95%CI: 65.8%-68.7%), public transport stops (69.9%; 95%CI: 68.6%-71.2%), bar/restaurant terraces (71.4%; 95%CI: 70.2%-72.6%), and beaches (72.8%; 95%CI: 71.4%-74.1%). Residents in Latvia showed the highest overall outdoor SHS presence rank, followed by Greece, and Portugal. Outdoor SHS presence was directly correlated to the country's smoking prevalence (r = 0.64), and inversely correlated to the Tobacco Control Scale 2016 overall score (r = -0.62), the socio-demographic index 2017 (r = -0.56), and Gross Domestic Product per capita 2018 (r = -0.47) (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS SHS presence is high in most outdoor areas in Europe, especially in countries with higher smoking prevalence and lower tobacco control performance. To address outdoor SHS exposure, our findings require considering smoking bans along with other strategies to reduce smoking prevalence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabet Henderson
- Agència de Salut Pública de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain; Departament de Ciències Experimentals i de la Salut (DCEXS), Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alessandra Lugo
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Xiaoqiu Liu
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Xavier Continente
- Agència de Salut Pública de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain; Sant Pau Institute of Biomedical Research (IIB Sant Pau), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Esteve Fernández
- Tobacco Control Unit, Institut Català d'Oncologia, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain; Tobacco Control Research Group, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain; School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain; Consortium for Biomedical Research in Respiratory Diseases (CIBERES), Madrid, Spain
| | - Maria J López
- Agència de Salut Pública de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain; Departament de Ciències Experimentals i de la Salut (DCEXS), Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain; Sant Pau Institute of Biomedical Research (IIB Sant Pau), Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Silvano Gallus
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milan, Italy
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19
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Green DS, Kregting L, Boots B. Effects of cigarette butts on marine keystone species (Ulva lactuca L. and Mytilus edulis L.) and sediment microphytobenthos. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 165:112152. [PMID: 33601278 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Outdoor mesocosms with constantly flowing natural seawater were used to test the effects of littered cigarette butts on the filter feeder Mytilus edulis (blue mussel), the macroalga, Ulva lactuca (sea lettuce) and sediment microphytobenthos in a semi-natural marine setting. Either conventional, cellulose acetate, or biodegradable, cellulose, smoked cigarette butts were added at densities of 0.25 or 1 butt L-1. The clearance rates of mussels exposed to 1 butt L-1 of cellulose acetate butts were three times less than the controls. The growth of U. lactuca was not measurably affected by cigarette butts, however the sediment chlorophyll content was significantly less in mesocosms exposed to 0.25 and 1 butt L-1 of cellulose acetate butts. These effects occurred despite constant replacement of seawater indicating how hazardous conventional cigarette butts are to marine life. Biodegradable cellulose cigarette butts had minimal effects on the measured variables but should still not be discarded as litter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dannielle Senga Green
- Applied Ecology Research Group, School of Life Sciences, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge CB1 1PT, United Kingdom.
| | - Louise Kregting
- School of Natural and Built Environment, Queen's University Belfast, Queen's Marine Laboratory, 12-13 The Strand, Portaferry, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - Bas Boots
- Applied Ecology Research Group, School of Life Sciences, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge CB1 1PT, United Kingdom
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20
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Moroz I, Scapolio LGB, Cesarino I, Leão AL, Bonanomi G. Toxicity of cigarette butts and possible recycling solutions-a literature review. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:10450-10473. [PMID: 33411271 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-11856-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Tobacco is a worldwide-consumed product, which in addition to causing public health-related issues is responsible for the most common form of litter in the world-smoked cigarette butts (CBs). A large attention has been drawn to this question, since this specific waste type tends to end up in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, posing serious threat to a range of life forms. Decomposition may take several years to occur because cellulose acetate is hardly accessible, before deacetylation, by bacteria and fungi. This review concerns the toxicity derived from smoked cigarette butts, as well as innovative ecological solutions for solving the CB litter problem. Toxicity studies have demonstrated the critical influence of chemicals present in smoked CBs to the environment as a whole, but also the physical contaminating potential considering micro- and nanoparticles derived from CB material. Nevertheless, several technological approaches were aimed at unveiling hidden value within used CBs, as well as propositions for incorporation of this residue in large volume production items or direct recycling. In summary, several methods are available to alleviate CB pollution, while appropriate and efficient collection logistics by consumers appears as the main bottleneck for an effective recycling. It is also clear that while considerable progress has been made recently in light of CB recycling solutions, there is still a vast research capacity in this regard.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Moroz
- Department of Bioprocesses and Biotechnology, School of Agriculture, Sao Paulo State University (Unesp), Avenida Universitária, 3780, Botucatu, Brazil.
| | - Luiz G B Scapolio
- Graduate Program in Materials Science and Engineering, Federal University of Sao Carlos, Rodovia Washington Luiz km 235, Sao Carlos, Brazil
| | - Ivana Cesarino
- Department of Bioprocesses and Biotechnology, School of Agriculture, Sao Paulo State University (Unesp), Avenida Universitária, 3780, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Alcides L Leão
- Department of Bioprocesses and Biotechnology, School of Agriculture, Sao Paulo State University (Unesp), Avenida Universitária, 3780, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Giuliano Bonanomi
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, via Università 100, 80055, Portici, Naples, Italy
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21
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Koroleva E, Mqulwa AZ, Norris-Jones S, Reed S, Tambe Z, Visagie A, Jacobs K. Impact of cigarette butts on bacterial community structure in soil. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:10.1007/s11356-021-13152-w. [PMID: 33638074 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-13152-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Cigarette butts contribute significantly to global pollution present on the planet. The filters found in cigarette butts contain a microplastic, cellulose acetate, as well as toxic metals and metalloids which are responsible for pollution in the environment. Although cigarette butt litter is prevalent in many soils, research on the effects of these cigarette butts is limited. In this study, we used Automated Ribosomal Intergenic Spacer Analysis (ARISA) to generate DNA fingerprints of bacterial communities in soil before and after the addition of cigarette butt leachate treatments. An ICP-MS analysis of the biodegradable and non-biodegradable cigarette butts revealed the presence of various elements: Al, As, B, Ba, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Mn, Mo, Ni, Pb, Sb, Se, Sn, Sr, V, and Zn. The analysis also specified which metals were present at the highest concentrations in the biodegradable and non-biodegradable cigarette butts, and these were, respectively, Al (1,31 g/kg and 2,35 g/kg), Fe (2,03 g/kg and 1,11 g/kg), and Zn (3,18 mg/kg and 15,70 mg/kg). Our results show that biodegradable cigarette butts had a significant effect on bacterial community composition (beta diversity), unlike the non-biodegradable butts. This effect can be attributed to higher concentrations of certain metals and metalloids in the leachate of biodegradable cigarette butts compared to the non-biodegradable ones. Our findings suggest that biodegradable and non-biodegradable cigarette butts can significantly affect bacterial communities in soil as a result of the leaching of significant quantities of certain elements into the surrounding soils.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizaveta Koroleva
- Department of Microbiology, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Aza Zizipo Mqulwa
- Department of Microbiology, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Scott Norris-Jones
- Department of Microbiology, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Sidney Reed
- Department of Microbiology, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Zahraa Tambe
- Department of Microbiology, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Aiden Visagie
- Department of Microbiology, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Karin Jacobs
- Department of Microbiology, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Stellenbosch, South Africa.
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da Silva Santos J, da Silva Pontes M, Grillo R, Fiorucci AR, José de Arruda G, Santiago EF. Physiological mechanisms and phytoremediation potential of the macrophyte Salvinia biloba towards a commercial formulation and an analytical standard of glyphosate. CHEMOSPHERE 2020; 259:127417. [PMID: 32623201 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.127417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Glyphosate (Gly) is the most widely used herbicide in the world and has broad-spectrum and non-selective activity. Its indiscriminate use hence risks contamination of water bodies and can affect living organisms, especially sensitive or resistant non-target plants. Despite this, studies on physiological mechanisms and Gly remediation in Neotropical aquatic plants remain limited. This study aims to evaluate the physiological mechanisms of the aquatic macrophyte Salvinia biloba on exposure to different concentrations of a Gly commercial formulation (Gly-CF) and a Gly analytical standard (Gly-AS). Furthermore, using square-wave voltammetry (SWV), we determined whether the studied plant could remove Gly from water. Our data suggest that Gly-AS and Gly-CF induce similar physiological responses in S. biloba. However, Gly-CF was more phytotoxic. Depending on the concentration, the two forms of Gly affected the plants, decreasing the chlorophyll a and b contents and the photosystem II (PSII) photochemical activity. The data also revealed that Gly promoted oxidative stress and increased the shikimic acid concentration. At the same time, the plants removed Gly from water, with 100% removal for 1 mg L-1 Gly and above 60% removal for the other concentrations studied. Therefore, our results suggest that S. biloba may be a potential phytoremediation agent for low Gly concentrations, since 1 mg L-1 Gly was completely removed and exhibited low phytotoxicity. This study deepens our scientific understanding of the Gly impact on and the phytoremediation potential of S. biloba.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaqueline da Silva Santos
- Grupo de Estudos em Recursos Vegetais, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Recursos Naturais, Universidade Estadual de Mato Grosso do Sul, CP 350, 79804-970, Dourados, MS, Brazil; Grupo de Estudos em Eletroquímica, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Recursos Naturais, Universidade Estadual de Mato Grosso do Sul, CP 350, 79804-970, Dourados, MS, Brazil
| | - Montcharles da Silva Pontes
- Grupo de Estudos em Recursos Vegetais, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Recursos Naturais, Universidade Estadual de Mato Grosso do Sul, CP 350, 79804-970, Dourados, MS, Brazil
| | - Renato Grillo
- Laboratório de Nanoquímica Ambiental, Departamento de Física e Química, Faculdade de Engenharia de Ilha Solteira, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Avenida Brasil, 56, Centro, 15385-000, Ilha Solteira, SP, Brazil
| | - Antonio Rogério Fiorucci
- Grupo de Estudos em Eletroquímica, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Recursos Naturais, Universidade Estadual de Mato Grosso do Sul, CP 350, 79804-970, Dourados, MS, Brazil
| | - Gilberto José de Arruda
- Grupo de Estudos em Eletroquímica, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Recursos Naturais, Universidade Estadual de Mato Grosso do Sul, CP 350, 79804-970, Dourados, MS, Brazil
| | - Etenaldo Felipe Santiago
- Grupo de Estudos em Recursos Vegetais, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Recursos Naturais, Universidade Estadual de Mato Grosso do Sul, CP 350, 79804-970, Dourados, MS, Brazil.
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23
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Green DS, Kregting L, Boots B. Smoked cigarette butt leachate impacts survival and behaviour of freshwater invertebrates. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2020; 266:115286. [PMID: 32781211 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.115286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/25/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Smoked cigarette filters a. k.a. "butts", composed of plastic (e.g. cellulose acetate) are one of the world's most common litter items. In response to concerns about plastic pollution, biodegradable cellulose filters are being promoted as an environmentally safe alternative, however, once smoked, both contain toxins which can leach once discarded. The impacts of biodegradable butts as littered items on the receiving environment, in comparison with conventional butts has not yet been assessed. A freshwater mesocosm experiment was used to test the effects of leachate from smoked cellulose acetate versus smoked cellulose filters at a range of concentrations (0, 0.2, 1 and 5 butts L-1) on the mortality and behaviour of four freshwater invertebrates (Dreissena polymorpha, Polycelis nigra, Planorbis planorbis and Bithynia tentaculata). Leachate derived from 5 butts L-1 of either type of filter caused 60-100% mortality to all species within 5 days. Leachate derived from 1 butt L-1 of either type resulted in adults being less active than those exposed to no or 0.2 butts L-1 leachate. Cigarette butts, therefore, regardless of their perceived degradability can cause mortality and decreased activity of key freshwater invertebrates and should always be disposed of responsibly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dannielle Senga Green
- Applied Ecology Research Group, School of Life Sciences, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, CB1 1PT, United Kingdom.
| | - Louise Kregting
- Marine Biology Station, Queen's University Belfast, Portaferry, Newtownards, BT22 1PF, United Kingdom
| | - Bas Boots
- Applied Ecology Research Group, School of Life Sciences, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, CB1 1PT, United Kingdom
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Bonanomi G, Maisto G, De Marco A, Cesarano G, Zotti M, Mazzei P, Libralato G, Staropoli A, Siciliano A, De Filippis F, La Storia A, Piccolo A, Vinale F, Crasto A, Guida M, Ercolini D, Incerti G. The fate of cigarette butts in different environments: Decay rate, chemical changes and ecotoxicity revealed by a 5-years decomposition experiment. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2020; 261:114108. [PMID: 32044614 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.114108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2019] [Revised: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Cigarette butts (CBs) are the most common litter item on Earth but no long-term studies evaluate their fate and ecological effects. Here, the role of nitrogen (N) availability and microbiome composition on CBs decomposition were investigated by a 5-years experiment carried out without soil, in park grassland and sand dune. During decomposition, CBs chemical changes was assessed by both 13C CPMAS NMR and LC-MS, physical structure by scanning electron microscope and ecotoxicity by Aliivibrio fischeri and Raphidocelis subcapitata. Microbiota was investigated by high-throughput sequencing of bacterial and eukaryotic rRNA gene markers. CBs followed a three-step decomposition process: at the early stage (∼30 days) CBs lost ∼15.2% of their mass. During the subsequent two years CBs decomposed very slowly, taking thereafter different trajectories depending on N availability and microbiome composition. Without soil CBs showed minor chemical and morphological changes. Over grassland soil a consistent N transfer occurs that, after de-acetylation, promote CBs transformation into an amorphous material rich in aliphatic compounds. In sand dune we found a rich fungal microbiota able to decompose CBs, even before the occurrence of de-acetylation. CBs ecotoxicity was highest immediately after smoking. However, for R. subcapitata toxicity remained high after two and five years of decomposition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuliano Bonanomi
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, via Università 100, 80055, Portici, Italy; Task Force on Microbiome Studies, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.
| | - Giulia Maisto
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Complesso Universitario di Monte S. Angelo, via Cinthia ed. 7, 80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Anna De Marco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Via Montesano 49, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Gaspare Cesarano
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, via Università 100, 80055, Portici, Italy
| | - Maurizio Zotti
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, via Università 100, 80055, Portici, Italy
| | - Pierluigi Mazzei
- Department of Pharmacy (DIFARMA), University of Salerno, via Giovanni Paolo II, 132, 84084, Fisciano, Italy
| | - Giovanni Libralato
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Complesso Universitario di Monte S. Angelo, via Cinthia ed. 7, 80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Alessia Staropoli
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, via Università 100, 80055, Portici, Italy; Institute for Sustainable Plant Protection, National Research Council, Portici, Italy
| | - Antonietta Siciliano
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Complesso Universitario di Monte S. Angelo, via Cinthia ed. 7, 80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca De Filippis
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, via Università 100, 80055, Portici, Italy; Task Force on Microbiome Studies, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonietta La Storia
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, via Università 100, 80055, Portici, Italy
| | - Alessandro Piccolo
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, via Università 100, 80055, Portici, Italy; Task Force on Microbiome Studies, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy; Centro Interdipartimentale di Ricerca sulla Risonanza Magnetica Nucleare per l'Ambiente, l'Agroalimentare ed i Nuovi Materiali (CERMANU), University of Naples Federico II, Italy
| | - Francesco Vinale
- Institute for Sustainable Plant Protection, National Research Council, Portici, Italy; University of Naples Federico II, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, Via F. Delpino, 80137 Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Crasto
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, via Università 100, 80055, Portici, Italy
| | - Marco Guida
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Complesso Universitario di Monte S. Angelo, via Cinthia ed. 7, 80126, Naples, Italy
| | - Danilo Ercolini
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, via Università 100, 80055, Portici, Italy; Task Force on Microbiome Studies, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Guido Incerti
- DI4A, Department of Agri-Food, Environmental and Animal Sciences, University of Udine, via delle Scienze 206, 33100, Udine, Italy
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Torkashvand J, Farzadkia M, Sobhi HR, Esrafili A. Littered cigarette butt as a well-known hazardous waste: A comprehensive systematic review. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2020; 383:121242. [PMID: 31563043 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2019.121242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Revised: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 09/14/2019] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Most of cigarettes used in the world have filters. Following smoking, the cigarette butts (CBs) are often littered as wastes in the environment. CBs generally contain several toxic substances that are trapped in the cigarette filter. Filters are made of non-biodegradable materials and remain in the environment for a long time. Within this study, it is attempted to systematically review the articles on CBs and find out the answers to the problems associated with the factors including quantity, distribution, origin and toxicity of CBs in the environment. It is estimated that approximately 5.5 trillion cigarettes are being produced annually in the world and the CB wastes would reach 1.2 million tons and increase by 50% until 2025. CBs contain thousands of dangerous chemicals such as arsenic, benzene, hydrogen cyanide, PAHs, pyridine, heavy metals and so forth. It is also believed that eachCB can pollute 1000 liters of water. Given the inadequacy of mechanical equipment as well as the cost of collecting these wastes, there should be a special focus on these items as follows: producing cigarettes with degradable filters, reducing the rate of smoking in the world, reducing the toxic and chemical substances in the process of plant growth, processing and production of cigarettes, training people to discard CBs properly, putting legal and financial pressures on cigarettes production, and the last but not least, providing effective solutions for collecting CBs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javad Torkashvand
- Research Center for Environmental Health Technology, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Student Research Committee, Faculty of Public Health Branch, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahdi Farzadkia
- Research Center for Environmental Health Technology, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Ali Esrafili
- Research Center for Environmental Health Technology, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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