Paris | Launch of major anti-littering plan to tackle cigarette butt pollution

Every day, between 4 to 5 million cigarette butts are discarded in the streets of Paris (nearly 2 billion each year) causing serious environmental and urban cleanliness issues. To combat this, the City of Paris is launching a large-scale plan. With cigarette litter costing the city around EUR 10 million annually and 60% of smoked cigarettes in public ending up on the ground, key measures include a EUR 135 fine for littering, free distribution of 400 000 pocket ashtrays through tobacconists and public campaigns, and the installation of 1 000 metal plaques near drains to remind citizens that “The Seine starts here”. 

The initiative also involves increased engagement with businesses and the public. Terrace permit holders will be reminded to provide ashtrays for clients, while office buildings will receive flyers encouraging ashtray installation. Public trash bins will be fitted with new cigarette extinguishers, and all public events must visibly include ashtrays as part of eco-responsibility guidelines. Finally, summer 2025 will see a city-wide awareness campaign with clean-up stands and roving eco-educators targeting high-traffic areas like universities and commercial zones. 

Source: www.paris.fr (in French)