Perceptions of Environmental Harm from Nicotine Products Among the Polish LGBTQ+ Community

Abstract Along with the increased popularity of alternative nicotine products among Poles, including members of the LGBTQ+ community, and their harm to public health, concerns about the environmental impact of these products have risen. This study aimed to gain a deeper understanding of the perceptions of the environmental harm of nicotine products by members of the LGBTQ+ community. The study was conducted in Poland between September and October 2024 among twenty respondents: 10 bisexual, 6 homosexual, 2 queer, 1 trans, and 1 asexual. They were 18-35 years old, with varied places of residence, financial, educational, and professional statuses, and family life forms. All of them used at least one type of nicotine product daily. The study employed an individual in-depth interview (IDI) methodology, conducted face-to-face or via telephone. Each structured, scenario-based interview lasted up to 60 minutes and was audio-recorded and later transcribed. Data were qualitatively analyzed for thematic structure, discourse, and sentiment using WEFT-QDA software. Concerns about the negative environmental impact of nicotine products prevail among respondents, both in relation to traditional cigarettes and modern nicotine devices (e-cigarettes, HTP). Key issues include the problem of cigarette butts and e-cigarettes, as well as plastic waste from disposable e-cigarettes (especially those imported from China), which is often not properly recycled and ends up in landfills. Respondents complained that the majority of users are unaware of the principles of correct disposal of nicotine products, but do not blame producers for the environmental consequences imposed by their products. The environmental impact of alternative nicotine products is an important issue raised by the Polish LGBTQ+ community. They indicate insufficient awareness and lack of established rules for the disposal of nicotine products but do not see the producers as responsible for their products’ environmental consequences. Key messages • Members of the Polish LGBTQ+ community are significantly concerned about the environmental impact of nicotine products, the improper disposal of cigarette butts and plastic waste from e-cigarettes. • Members of the Polish LGBTQ+ community tend to blame users but not producers of e-cigarettes for environmental consequences.