The Environmental Hazards of Cigarette Butts and Filters: Evaluating Toxicity in Aquatic Ecosystems Using Artemia salina L.

Authors : Emine Sadıç, Tülay Aşkın Çelik
Pages : 300-311
Doi:10.22392/actaquatr.1634689
View : 184 | Download : 326
Publication Date : 2025-12-01
Article Type : Research Paper
Abstract :Cigarette butts and filters persist in the environment without degrading, contaminating waterways through rainwater runoff and damaging aquatic ecosystems. Studies indicate that cellulose acetate-based filters are non-biodegradable and release toxic substances-such as nicotine, arsenic, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and heavy metals-that adversely affect aquatic organisms. This pollution threatens the food chain and biodiversity within aquatic ecosystems. In this study, the potential cytotoxic effects of light and regular cigarette butts and their filter leachates were evaluated using the Letality Assay on Artemia salina L. (brine shrimp). The in vivo cytotoxic effects on A. salina were assessed after exposure to varying concentrations (10 ppm-1000 ppm) of cigarette butt and filter leachates for 24-48 hours. Viability rates and toxicity were calculated using Probit analysis. Results from the A. salina Letality Assay indicated a decrease in survival rates correlated with increased concentrations of cigarette butt and filter leachates, with a notable decline in lethality observed after 48 hours of exposure. These findings suggest that the chemical compounds in cigarette butts and filters may exert cytotoxic effects on aquatic organisms. The results highlight that cigarette butts, particularly those containing cellulose acetate filters, pose a serious environmental threat to aquatic ecosystems. This study makes an important contribution to the protection of aquatic ecosystems and underscores the need for broader investigation into the environmental impacts of cigarette butt waste.
Keywords : Artemia salina L., Sigara izmariti, Sigara izmariti sızıntısı, Sitotoksisite, Ekotoksikoloji

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