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Cigarette filters release microfibers into water — Level A1 — low-angle photo of high-rise building

Cigarette filters release microfibers into waterCEFR A1

26 Jan 2026

LevelA1A2B1B2

Adapted from U. Buffalo, Futurity • CC BY 4.0

Photo by RHUM Phan, Unsplash

Level A1 – Beginner
2 min
72 words
  • Cigarette filters often end up in rivers, lakes and oceans.
  • They release many tiny microfibers into the water quickly.
  • The filter sheds fibers almost immediately on contact.
  • More fibers break away from the filter over several days.
  • Fish and birds can swallow the tiny fibers by mistake.
  • The fibers can carry harmful chemicals and tiny germs.
  • This pollution can block digestion and harm animals.
  • Putting more bins for butts can reduce pollution.

Difficult words

  • filter — a small part that traps particles
    filters
  • microfiber — a very small thread or plastic piece
    microfibers
  • shed — to lose small pieces or let them fall
    sheds
  • swallow — to take something into the stomach by mouth
  • harmful — dangerous or likely to cause harm
  • pollution — dirty or harmful material in the environment

Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.

Discussion questions

  • Have you seen cigarette butts in rivers or lakes?
  • Do you use a bin when you see a cigarette butt?
  • Do you think more bins can help reduce pollution?

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