This statement was delivered by the World Heart Federation at the Eleventh session of the Conference of the Parties to the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control
Honourable Chair,
Distinguished Delegates,
The World Heart Federation commends Parties for the progress made in protecting the environment from tobacco-related harms and product waste.
The impact of tobacco on the environment remains insufficiently recognized. For decades, the tobacco industry has sought to greenwash its reputation through so-called corporate social responsibility schemes. Nonetheless, extensive evidence shows that tobacco harms our planet throughout its entire lifecycle – from cultivation, to manufacture, distribution, consumption, and disposal.
The industry contributes directly to air pollution, carbon emissions, deforestation, water contamination, soil degradation, and climate change, all of which adversely affect human health, including cardiovascular health.
Cigarette filters continues to be a major source of toxic waste, including plastic pollution, despite evidence showing that plastic cigarette filters provide no health benefits. Newer tobacco and nicotine product contribute further, creating both plastic and battery waste.
WHF urges Parties to fully implement the Framework Convention, particularly leverage extended producer liability measures, adopt the draft decision, and consider applying measures to newer tobacco and nicotine products.
Thank you.
