"Healty Kids, Healthy Planet" is now available in Dutch, English and Portuguese.
World No Tobacco Day Cleanup Leuven
Saturday 31 May. Registration Required.
Adopting an environmental perspective, our mission goes beyond highlighting the health risks of tobacco. We expose the wider environmental harm caused by the tobacco industry and its misleading ‘greenwashing’ tactics. By engaging young people, we aim to equip them with the tools to help build a cleaner, healthier planet for current and future generations.
We fully support the European Commission’s goal of a tobacco-free generation by 2040. Locally, we endorse Leuven 2030, that work towards carbon neutrality, and other city-led initiatives, such as LOV 2030, Leuven's candidacy to become European Capital of Culture.
Increase awareness about the harmful impact of the tobacco industry on the ecosystem, by community outreach, media campaigns, and educational workshops.
From a realistic perspective, considering that a portion of the population still smokes, it is imperative that they dispose of their cigarette butts and vapes appropriately to minimize the environmental impact.
Foster environmental citizenship by offering free workshops, encouraging art intervention projects, and providing access to scientific-based information.
Collaborate with local businesses, schools, and community groups to promote our cause and increase community involvement in our initiatives.
I've always been conscious of the devastating effects of the tobacco industry on public health. However, in 2020, I began taking my baby to the local playgrounds in Leuven, and to my surprise, the sandpits were filled with cigarette butts. It was at that moment that I started researching the environmental catastrophe caused by this industry, from tobacco production to the waste generated by cigarette butts and "vaping" devices, as well as their pervasive greenwashing tactics. To protect our planet and future generations, I set in motion "Bin Your Butts Leuven". Marília Breite - Founder of Bin Your Butts Leuven
Healthy Kids, Healthy Planet is the first science-based book for children aged 7–10 addressing the health and environmental impacts of smoking and vaping. Intended for both home and school use, it combines clear language, illustrations, and practical activities to support early prevention.
Endorsed by Dr Guido Van Hal (University of Antwerp), the Smoking Cessation Team at UZ Leuven, and Dr Tânia M. Cavalcante (National Cancer Institute, Brazil / WHO FCTC). Available in English, Dutch, and Portuguese.