As someone who has grown up in the United Kingdom, I have seen firsthand the impact that cigarettes have had on our society. From their legalization in the 17th century to the current debates surrounding their use, cigarettes have always been a controversial topic. As a non-smoker, I have observed the impact of cigarettes from an outside perspective and have come to understand their wide-ranging effects on individuals and the UK as a whole.
It’s no secret that cigarettes are addictive and harmful to our health. In fact, smoking is responsible for more than 200,000 deaths in the UK each year. And yet, despite the well-documented health risks, cigarettes continue to be a popular choice for many individuals. As a non-smoker, I have always been perplexed by this. Why would someone willingly subject themselves to such harm?
One factor that contributes to the popularity of cigarettes in the UK is their availability and affordability. Cigarettes can be purchased at almost any corner shop, supermarket, or petrol station. And with a pack of 20 cigarettes costing around £10, they are relatively cheap compared to other countries. The easy access and affordability make it tempting for people to pick up the habit or continue smoking, even with the knowledge of the consequences.
Another reason for the prevalence of cigarettes in the UK is the power of marketing. For years, cigarette companies have utilized clever advertising strategies to appeal to potential smokers. From the iconic Marlboro Man to the catchy jingles of iconic brands like Winston and Camel, cigarettes have been marketed as a symbol of freedom, masculinity, and sophistication. These campaigns have been so effective that they have managed to create a positive perception of cigarettes despite their harmful effects.
But it’s not just adults who are targeted by cigarette companies. The rise of social media has made it easier for tobacco companies to directly advertise to young people. By utilizing influencers and sponsoring events, they have been successful in appealing to the younger generation, who are often naive to the dangers of smoking. This targeted marketing has led to an increase in teenage smokers, with 270,000 children in the UK aged 11-15 smoking regularly.
Aside from health risks, one of the most significant issues with cigarette smoking in the UK is its impact on the environment. It’s estimated that around 122,000 tonnes of cigarette waste is generated each year in the UK, with the majority of it ending up on our streets, beaches and in the sea. The filters in cigarettes are made of non-biodegradable plastic, which takes hundreds of years to decompose. This has a devastating effect on marine life and the environment as a whole.
In response to these concerns, the UK government has implemented various measures to reduce smoking rates and combat the negative effects of cigarettes. The most notable of these is the smoking ban, which was introduced in 2007. This legislation banned smoking in all enclosed public places, including pubs, restaurants, and workplaces, making it illegal to smoke inside any public building. While some may argue that this infringes on personal freedom, the ban has been successful in reducing exposure to second-hand smoke, protecting the health of non-smokers, and encouraging smokers to quit.
Moreover, cigarettes in the UK are heavily taxed, with the government using the revenue to fund healthcare and education campaigns aimed at reducing smoking rates. In 2019, the UK government announced that it was increasing taxes on cigarettes by 2% above inflation, making a pack of 20 cigarettes even more expensive. This increase in taxes is also intended to deter young people from picking up the habit and to encourage current smokers to quit.
In recent years, there has also been a surge in the popularity of e-cigarettes or vaping. Vaping devices are marketed as a healthier alternative to traditional cigarettes, with many claiming that it helped them quit smoking. However, there is still much debate surrounding the long-term effects of vaping, and the UK government has implemented restrictions on its advertising and sales to minors.
As the debate surrounding cigarettes continues, one thing is clear – they have a significant impact on our society. From health risks to environmental concerns, cigarettes have far-reaching consequences. As a non-smoker, I believe it’s crucial for the UK government to continue implementing measures to reduce smoking rates and protect the health of its citizens.
In conclusion, cigarettes in the UK have a complicated and controversial history. With their widespread availability, clever marketing tactics, and affordable prices, they continue to be a popular choice for many. However, with the government’s efforts to reduce smoking rates, we can hope to see a decline in the use of cigarettes and its associated negative impacts. As for now, it’s up to us as individuals to make informed choices about our health and the environment when it comes to smoking.