LOVELY PROFESSIONAL UNIVERSITY

PHAGWARA, PUNJAB
COURSE CODE- MGNM831
COURSE TITLE- BUSINESS AND
SUSTAINABILITY
ACADEMIC TASK NO.- 01
DATE OF ALLOTMENT- 07-12-2023
STUDENT REGISTRATION NO.-
12107815
SECTION- Q2109
COURSE INSTRUCTOR-
DR. POOJA KHANNA
STUDENT NAME- YASH DORGE
DATE OF SUBMISSION- 19-12-2023
STUDENT ROLL NO.-RQ2109B61

Learning Outcome:

GENERAL SUGGESTIONS BEST PART EVALUATORS

OBSERVATIO FOR OF SIGNATURE
N IMPROVMENTS ASSIGNMENT DATE

Marks Allotted:
Maximum Marks: 30
Student’s Signature: YASH DORGE
 CLIMATE CHANGE

Climate change refers to significant and lasting alterations in Earth's climate

patterns over an extended period. These changes encompass shifts in
temperature, precipitation, wind patterns, and other atmospheric conditions.
Unlike natural climate variations observed over geological time scales,
contemporary climate change is largely attributed to human activities.

The primary driver of recent climate change is the increased concentration of

greenhouse gases in the Earth's atmosphere. Human activities, such as the
burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas), deforestation, and industrial
processes, release large quantities of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other
greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. These gases trap heat, leading to a
warming effect commonly known as the greenhouse effect.

Identification of Environmental Issues

Greenhouse Gas Emissions:

At the core of climate change are greenhouse gas emissions, primarily carbon
dioxide and methane. We'll dissect the sources of these emissions, including
industrial activities, deforestation, and the burning of fossil fuels.
Deforestation's Toll:
The rampant destruction of forests contributes significantly to climate change.
We'll examine the consequences of deforestation on biodiversity, emphasizing
its role as a critical environmental problem.

Melting Ice Caps and Rising Sea Levels:

As temperatures rise, ice caps melt, and sea levels ascend. We'll discuss the
alarming rate at which this phenomenon is occurring and the direct impact on
coastal communities and ecosystems.

Human Activities and Climate Change:

Industrial Pollution
Industries play a major role in climate change through the release of pollutants.
We'll scrutinize the types of pollutants and their adverse effects on the
environment.

Fossil Fuels and Their Impact

Burning fossil fuels is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. We'll
explore the connection between fossil fuel consumption and climate change,
emphasizing the need for sustainable alternatives.

Agricultural Practices
The agricultural sector is not exempt from contributing to climate change. We'll
delve into the environmental consequences of certain farming methods and the
need for sustainable agricultural practices.
 TINY BUT DEADLY - CIGARETTE BUTTS

Cigarette butt pollution stands as a pressing environmental concern, emanating

from the widespread and often negligent disposal of the small remnants left
after smoking a cigarette. Despite their diminutive size, cigarette butts
contribute significantly to environmental degradation due to their abundance,
persistence, and the harmful substances they contain. Comprised of cellulose
acetate, a type of plastic that can take years to break down, these butts linger in
the environment, leaching toxic chemicals such as nicotine, heavy metals, and
carcinogens into soil and water.

The impact of this pollution reverberates through ecosystems, posing threats to

both terrestrial and aquatic life. In aquatic environments, cigarette butt toxins
can contaminate water sources, adversely affecting fish and other aquatic
organisms. Additionally, the ingestion of discarded butts by wildlife, such as
birds and marine animals, further amplifies the ecological repercussions.

Environmental Impact of Cigarette Butt Pollution

1. Toxic Chemicals Release:

Cigarette butts contain harmful chemicals from tobacco and the combustion
process. When discarded, these chemicals leach into the environment,
contaminating soil and water sources.

2. Microplastic Pollution:
The filters in cigarette butts are composed of plastic fibers, adding to the
growing concern of microplastic pollution. Over time, these fibers break down
into smaller particles, entering ecosystems and potentially harming wildlife.
 3. Water Contamination:
Rainfall can wash chemicals from discarded cigarette butts into storm drains,
rivers, and oceans, leading to water pollution. Aquatic ecosystems and marine
life are particularly vulnerable to this contamination.

4. Wildlife Hazard:
Small animals and birds may mistake cigarette butts for food, leading to
ingestion of toxic substances. This can have detrimental effects on their health,
reproductive systems, and overall well-being.

Composition of a cigarette

Tobacco consumption by country

As of 2014, cigarettes were smoked by over 1 billion people, nearly 20% of the
world's population then. About 800 million of those smokers were male. While
smoking rates have stagnated or decreased in developed nations, the tobacco
consumption in developing nations is increasing, especially among men.

As of 2018, tobacco use has massively decreased since the 1950s and is
projected to decrease even faster in the future. More than 80% of all smokers
now live in countries with low or middle incomes, and 60% in just 10 countries,
a list headed by China. China is the world's second most populated country, and
is also the leading country in the cigarette industry. In 2014, China produced
and consumed more than 30% of the cigarettes in the world. There is a strong
relationship between socioeconomic status (SES) and smoking behaviors.
According to research, developing countries have the highest rate of tobacco
use. "China was found to be one of the countries with the highest male-to-
female ratio of smoking prevalence": 74% of males and 8% of females were
smokers.

Smoking rates in the United States dropped by half from 1965 to 2006, from
42% to 20.8% of adults, with further significant decreasing to 14% by 2018.
There are large regional differences in smoking rates.
In Australia, the incidence of smoking is decreasing, with figures from 2018
showing 16.2% of the population (over 15) to be smokers, a decline from 27.6%
in 2000. Young adults are the most likely age group to smoke, with a marked
decline in smoking rates with increasing age. The prevalence of smoking is
strongly associated with socioeconomic disadvantage (low earners), with over
double the rate in the most disadvantaged quintile of the population as
compared to the least. Smoking rates in rural areas tend to be higher than in city
areas.

NEWS ARTICLES
Researchers found that smoking causes the brain to shrink and age prematurely,
a condition not reversible.

The costs of environmental pollution caused by plastics in cigarette butts and

packaging amount to an estimated USD 26 billion every year, according to a
study.
The analysis, published in the journal Tobacco Control, found the costs to be
USD 186 billion every 10 years adjusted for inflation in waste management and
marine ecosystem damage worldwide.
 EFFECTIVE SOLUTIONS

1. Cigarette Butt Collection Stations:

Cigarette Butt Collection Stations serve as designated locations for
smokers to responsibly dispose of their cigarette butts. These stations are
strategically placed in high-traffic areas, public spaces, parks, and urban
centers. They are designed to be easily recognizable, user-friendly, and
equipped with clear signage to encourage proper disposal habits.

 Benefits and Features:

Accessibility: Collection stations are strategically located in areas where
smoking is prevalent, ensuring accessibility for smokers.
Educational Signage: Clear and informative signage educates individuals on the
environmental impact of cigarette butt pollution and encourages responsible
disposal.

 Facts and Data:

Impact on Beach Cleanups: The Ocean Conservancy's International Coastal
Cleanup consistently ranks cigarette butts as the most collected item during
beach cleanups, underscoring the need for targeted disposal solutions.
Reduction in Litter: A study published in the journal Tobacco Control found
that providing designated smoking areas with proper disposal facilities
significantly reduces cigarette butt litter, showcasing the effectiveness of such
solutions.
Behavioral Impact: According to a survey conducted by Keep America
Beautiful, providing accessible and well-maintained ash receptacles has a
positive impact on reducing cigarette butt litter, influencing users to dispose of
their butts responsibly.
Global Initiatives: Countries such as Australia and Canada have successfully
implemented cigarette butt disposal programs, demonstrating the feasibility and
effectiveness of designated collection stations.
  Challenges and Considerations:
1. Regular Maintenance: Ensuring regular emptying and maintenance of
collection stations is crucial to prevent overflow and maintain cleanliness.
2. Awareness: Continuous efforts are needed to raise awareness among
smokers about the existence and purpose of these stations.
3. Innovation Potential: Integrating technology, such as smart sensors to
monitor the fill level of collection bins, can optimize maintenance
schedules and enhance the efficiency of these stations.

2. Innovative Recycling Technology:

Innovative recycling technology for cigarette butts involves advanced processes

for breaking down and repurposing the various components of discarded
cigarettes. Companies like TerraCycle have pioneered methods to separate and
recycle materials such as filters, tobacco remnants, and paper, turning them into
new products.
 Benefits:
Environmental Impact:
Reduces the environmental burden of non-biodegradable cigarette filters by
repurposing them into useful materials.
Prevents toxic substances from leaching into the soil and water when
conventional cigarette butts are discarded.
Resource Recovery:
Extracts valuable materials from cigarette butts, such as plastics, that can be
reused in manufacturing processes.
Contributes to a more sustainable use of resources by diverting waste from
landfills.
Innovation in Waste Management:
Demonstrates the feasibility of tackling specific waste streams, paving the way
for innovative solutions to other environmental challenges.
Sets a precedent for addressing the unique recycling needs of widely consumed
but difficult-to-recycle items.
Facts and Data:
 According to TerraCycle, their cigarette butt recycling program has
recycled millions of cigarette butts globally, showcasing the scalability and
impact of such initiatives.
 Recycling technologies have been successful in recovering materials like
cellulose acetate (found in filters) for repurposing into plastic pellets used
in industrial applications.

Challenges and Considerations:

Complexity of Materials:
Cigarette butts consist of various materials, including cellulose acetate, metals,
and residual tobacco. Separating and processing these components efficiently
can be technically challenging.
Scale and Infrastructure:
Scaling up recycling technologies to handle the vast quantities of cigarette butts
generated globally requires significant infrastructure development.
Economic Viability:
Ensuring that the costs of implementing and maintaining recycling technologies
are economically viable and sustainable in the long term is a crucial
consideration.
Consumer Education:
Overcoming the challenge of educating consumers about the existence and
importance of recycling programs for cigarette butts to encourage participation.

3. Collaboration with Tobacco Industry:

Collaborating with the tobacco industry is a crucial component of the
comprehensive cigarette butt recycling and upcycling program. The aim is to
encourage the industry to take responsibility for the environmental impact of
its products and actively support sustainable solutions. This collaboration
involves engaging in discussions, establishing partnerships, and securing
financial and logistical support for recycling initiatives.

Benefits:
Financial Support: The tobacco industry's financial backing can significantly
contribute to the success and scalability of recycling programs.

Expertise and Infrastructure: Leveraging the industry's expertise and existing

infrastructure can streamline the implementation of recycling initiatives,
making them more effective and sustainable.

Improved Industry Image: Collaborating on environmentally friendly

initiatives can enhance the tobacco industry's public image by showcasing a
commitment to sustainability and corporate social responsibility.

Facts and Data:

 Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Impact: Many industries, including
tobacco, have increasingly embraced CSR initiatives. Collaborations with
environmental organizations have resulted in positive outcomes for various
environmental challenges.

 Economic Contributions: Data from successful collaborations in other

industries show that financial support from corporations has played a
pivotal role in addressing environmental concerns and implementing
sustainable practices.

 Global Trends: Companies across sectors are recognizing the importance of

aligning business practices with environmental sustainability. The tobacco
 industry's participation can align with this global trend toward corporate
environmental responsibility.

Challenges and Considerations:

1. Conflicting Interests: The tobacco industry's primary focus is on selling its
products, which may pose challenges when aligning with sustainability
goals. Balancing profitability with environmental responsibility requires
careful consideration.

2. Public Skepticism: Collaborating with the tobacco industry may be met with
skepticism from the public due to historical controversies surrounding the
health impacts of tobacco products. Transparent communication and clear
goals are crucial to building trust.

3. Regulatory Scrutiny: The tobacco industry operates under strict regulations,

and any collaboration must align with legal and ethical standards. Engaging
in open dialogue with regulatory bodies is essential to ensure compliance.

4. Long-Term Commitment: Sustainability initiatives require a long-term

commitment. Ensuring that the tobacco industry remains dedicated to
supporting recycling programs beyond short-term goals is essential for the
success of the collaboration.
4. Job Creation and Economic Impact:
The Job Creation and Economic Impact component of the comprehensive
cigarette butt recycling and upcycling program focuses on generating
employment opportunities, fostering economic growth, and creating
sustainable markets through the recycling and upcycling initiatives.

Benefits:

Employment Opportunities:
Recycling centers and processing facilities will require skilled and unskilled
labor for collection, sorting, and processing of cigarette butts.
Upcycling initiatives, such as creating products from recycled materials, will
open avenues for craftsmen, designers, and manufacturers.

Green Jobs:
The recycling and upcycling sectors contribute to the growth of green jobs,
promoting environmentally sustainable practices.

Economic Growth:
The establishment and growth of recycling industries contribute to the
overall economic development of communities by creating new markets and
industries.

Facts and Data:

 The recycling industry in the United States alone supports over 700,000
jobs and contributes approximately $37 billion in wages and benefits
annually, according to the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries.

 Green jobs, which include positions in recycling and environmental

sustainability, are expected to grow globally, providing employment
opportunities in the transition to a more sustainable economy.

Challenges and Considerations:

Skills Training:
Challenge: Ensuring that the workforce has the necessary skills for jobs in
recycling and upcycling.
Consideration: Implement training programs and partnerships with
educational institutions to develop a skilled and adaptable workforce.
Market Demand:
Challenge: Sustaining demand for upcycled products and recycled materials.
Consideration: Develop marketing strategies to promote the benefits of using
recycled materials, fostering consumer awareness and demand.

Economic Viability:
Challenge: Ensuring the economic viability of recycling and upcycling
initiatives.
Consideration: Explore partnerships with businesses and government
incentives to support and incentivize recycling enterprises.

Social Impact:
Challenge: Addressing social considerations, such as the potential
displacement of workers in traditional industries.
Consideration: Develop strategies for a just transition, including retraining
programs and support for affected communities.

 Impact on People

Public Health Improvement:

Reduction in cigarette butt pollution contributes to improved public health
by minimizing exposure to harmful toxins found in discarded cigarette butts.
Communities benefit from cleaner public spaces, reducing the risk of
accidental ingestion and exposure to hazardous substances.
Community Engagement:
Incentivized recycling programs and upcycling initiatives actively involve
the community, fostering a sense of responsibility and collective action.
Public awareness campaigns contribute to informed decision-making and
responsible behavior regarding cigarette butt disposal.

Job Creation:
The recycling industry and upcycling initiatives generate employment
opportunities, contributing to economic development and community well-
being.
Job creation supports livelihoods and enhances the economic resilience of
communities.

 Impact on Planet

Environmental Conservation:
Cigarette butt collection stations and recycling technologies significantly
reduce the environmental impact of discarded cigarette butts, preventing
toxins from leaching into the soil and water.
Proper disposal and recycling contribute to the conservation of ecosystems
and the protection of wildlife.

Circular Economy:
Upcycling initiatives contribute to a circular economy by transforming waste
into valuable products, reducing the need for new raw materials and
minimizing environmental degradation.
The program promotes sustainable consumption patterns and waste
reduction.

Biodiversity Protection:
Mitigating the impact of cigarette butt pollution on ecosystems and water
bodies indirectly supports biodiversity conservation.
Reduction in environmental pollution positively affects the health of aquatic
ecosystems and marine life.

 Impact on Profit
Economic Opportunities:
The program creates economic opportunities through job creation, upcycling
initiatives, and the potential for local businesses to participate in recycling
efforts.
Businesses engaged in the recycling and upcycling supply chain contribute
to economic growth.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR):

Collaboration with the tobacco industry and other businesses showcases a
commitment to CSR, enhancing brand reputation and fostering a positive
relationship with the community.
Companies participating in sustainable initiatives are likely to attract
environmentally conscious consumers.

Cost Savings:
Effective waste management and recycling can lead to cost savings for local
governments and businesses by reducing the financial burden associated
with cleaning up cigarette butt litter.
Preventing environmental damage can result in long-term cost savings
related to ecosystem restoration and pollution mitigation.

LINKS TO COURSE READINGS

 I. https://neurosciencenews.com/smoking-brain-shrinkage-25358/

II. https://www.aa.com.tr/en/asia-pacific/indian-brothers-aim-to-recycle-35-
billion-cigarette-butts-into-products/2705121

III. https://www.business-standard.com/world-news/plastic-pollution-from-
cigarettes-likely-costs-26-bn-per-year-study-123120400792_1.html

IV. https://aim2flourish.com/innovations/cigarette-butts-from-waste-to-best

V. https://tobaccocontrol.bmj.com/content/20/Suppl_1/i2

VI. https://exposetobacco.org/news/stop-wntd-2022-statement/

VII. https://theimpactinvestor.com/triple-bottom-line/

VIII. https://www.investopedia.com/terms/t/triplebottom.asp