Initial estimates of the lifetime of unsmoked cellulose diacetate and paper cigarette filters in the coastal ocean

Abstract

Cigarette filters (CFs) are the most littered items on the planet, but their fate in the coastal ocean is unknown. The results of this study demonstrate that unsmoked cellulose diacetate and proposed replacement paper CFs have similar lifetimes, suggesting that policy aimed at transitioning to paper filters is unlikely to reduce CF pollution in coastal areas. Three alternative paths to curb CF pollution are discussed, focusing on research, infrastructure, and education.