One in six smokers still throws their cigarette butt out the window on the motorway

The habit persists. While France is battling devastating wildfires, 17% of smokers admit to throwing their cigarette butts out of their car windows on the highway. This behavior remains deeply ingrained despite growing awareness: 87% of French people know that cigarette butts pose a major fire risk. The Ipsos BVA survey, conducted for the Vinci Autoroutes Foundation at the end of July, reveals a troubling gap between awareness of the danger and actual practices.

A problem of civic responsibility rather than equipment

## A problem of civic responsibility rather than equipment

The disappearance of ashtrays in new cars is often cited as an explanation for cigarette butt littering. Manufacturers haven't included them as standard equipment for several years. Yet, these accessories remain widely available, both from car manufacturers and online. The problem stems more from a lack of education and civic responsibility than from a lack of practicality. Smokers have simple solutions to avoid turning highway verges into danger zones.

Prevention efforts are progressing, but behaviors are changing more slowly. Awareness campaigns are increasing their messages about the environmental and safety consequences of these commonplace actions. Authorities are relying on individual responsibility to reduce this phenomenon, which fuels roadside fires every summer.