Electronic cigarettes are eco-friendly
Can cigarettes really be green? As smoke-free laws sweep the United States, companies are selling electronic cigrarettes that emit vapor — not smoke, and one’s pitching them as eco-friendly.
Green Smoke, a North Miami Beach-based company, says it “aspires to create a greener planet” by offering a cigarette that has no second-hand smoke, no ash and no risk of fire.
“It contains no tar, carbon monoxide and other dangerous toxins,” the company says of its cigarette, adding it provides nicotine “without taking a toll on your lungs and heart.”
E-cigarettes are battery-powered devices made up of a cartridge containing nicotine, flavoring and chemicals. They turn nicotine, which is addictive, into a vapor that is inhaled. Users say they’re “vaping,” not smoking. (For more information, see this USA TODAY story.)
Public health officials question their safety, and the Food and Drug Administration, which regulates tobacco and nicotine replacement devices, says the e-cigarettes it tested had carcinogens. E-cigarette distributors have filed a lawsuit challenging the FDA’s authority.
From content.usatoday.com.