Cigarette filters are one of the most common litter items in the Chinatown–International District. Through CIDBIA’s Cigarette Butt Recycling program, you can dispose of cigarette butts in dedicated containers—then the collected material is recycled and turned into plastic.
This is a simple way to help keep our sidewalks cleaner and support a more welcoming district.
How it works
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Stub and cool your cigarette fully.
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Drop cigarette butts (filters) into a CIDBIA recycling container.
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CIDBIA Clean Team collects the material and partners with a recycling program to process it.
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The collected waste is recycled into plastic and kept out of storm drains and sidewalks.
What goes in the container
YES
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Cigarette butts / cigarette filters (including hand-rolled cigarette butts)
NO
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Vapes or e-cigarettes
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Batteries or electronics
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Tobacco pouches, gum, trash, or liquids
If it has a battery, do not place it in the container.
Why cigarette butts matter
Even small litter has a big impact. Cigarette butts can:
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End up in storm drains and waterways
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Add to visual clutter and sidewalk mess
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Increase cleanup costs and strain neighborhood maintenance
By using the container, you’re helping protect public spaces and supporting cleaner streets.
Where to find a cigarette butt recycling container
CIDBIA containers are placed in high-use locations throughout the district. Look for a container labeled “Recycle Cigarette Butts Here.”
Want a container near your business or building?
Contact us at clean@cidbia.org to request a placement.
Help us keep the program working
You can support this effort by:
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Using the container every time
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Reminding friends and customers: cigarettes only—no vapes
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Reporting a full container or damage
Report an issue: clean@cidbia.org.
