Shisha Smoking An Environmental Perspective
Just recently, Mr. Chris Oisakede, Chairman of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), Edo branch, issued a stern warning to shisha smokers, urging them to desist from the act due to its inherent dangers.
While the health risks associated with shisha smoking are well-documented, including respiratory issues, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer, there is a pressing need to examine the environmental implications of this practice, particularly from a sustainability perspective.
Shisha smoking, also known as hookah or waterpipe smoking, involves the burning of charcoal to heat flavored tobacco, producing smoke that is inhaled through a water chamber. This process has several negative implications for the environment.
Firstly, the use of charcoal in shisha smoking contributes to deforestation and air pollution. Charcoal is often produced from wood, and the demand for it can lead to the depletion of forests, which are vital for carbon sequestration and maintaining biodiversity. Deforestation not only exacerbates climate change by reducing the number of trees that absorb carbon dioxide but also disrupts ecosystems and endangers wildlife.
Also, the combustion of charcoal releases harmful pollutants into the atmosphere, including carbon monoxide, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and particulate matter. These pollutants contribute to air quality degradation and pose serious health risks to both smokers and non-smokers. Additionally, the production and transportation of charcoal generate greenhouse gas emissions, further contributing to global warming.
Another environmental concern is the disposal of shisha waste. Used charcoal, tobacco residues, and single-use plastic components such as mouthpieces and hoses contribute to solid waste pollution. Improper disposal of these materials can lead to soil and water contamination, affecting plant and animal life. The plastic components, in particular, can take hundreds of years to decompose, adding to the already critical problem of plastic pollution.
The environmental footprint of shisha smoking also extends to its contribution to ozone layer depletion. The manufacturing process of the materials used in shisha, including plastics and metals, often involves the release of ozone-depleting substances (ODS). These substances, such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), are used in the production of certain plastics and can escape into the atmosphere, where they break down ozone molecules. The depletion of the ozone layer results in increased ultraviolet (UV) radiation reaching the Earth’s surface, leading to higher rates of skin cancer, cataracts, and other health issues, as well as impacting terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems.
In light of these environmental impacts, it is crucial to consider sustainable alternatives and practices. Reducing the use of shisha and promoting awareness of its environmental consequences can help mitigate its negative effects. Additionally, encouraging the development and use of eco-friendly materials for shisha components, as well as promoting proper waste disposal and recycling practices, can contribute to a more sustainable approach.
Mr. Chris Oisakede’s warning against shisha smoking is not only a call to action for public health but also an urgent plea for environmental consciousness. By understanding and addressing the sustainability issues associated with shisha smoking, we can take significant steps towards protecting our environment and ensuring a healthier future for all.
