We are thrilled to announce that on August 28, 2025, the Capitola City Council voted to adopt an ordinance banning the sale of tobacco products with plastic filters.
Surfrider Santa Cruz attended the meeting to show support, alongside other community members and partner organizations. This decision marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to reduce plastic pollution and protect our coastal environment.
“I was happy to see such a great turnout of community members and activists that are committed to making our beaches cleaner, safer, and healthier.”
— Jack Ward, Surfrider Policy Committee Coordinator
Cigarette butts are the most common piece of litter on beaches worldwide and contain plastic that leaches toxic chemicals into the environment. Even properly disposed filters often end up in waterways, where they contribute to microplastic pollution and threaten marine life. By targeting the product rather than individuals, these bans hold manufacturers accountable and prevent pollution before it starts.
With the adoption of this ordinance, Capitola joins Santa Cruz in leading local action against single-use plastic pollution. Each additional city that passes a “Ban the Butt” policy strengthens the countywide effort, ensuring broader environmental protection and encouraging other municipalities to follow suit.
This victory is the result of tireless advocacy by Surfrider Santa Cruz, Save Our Shores, and other community organizations. Our collective efforts have brought attention to the environmental impact of cigarette butt litter and have driven policy change at the local level.
With Capitola's adoption of this ordinance, we now look to other cities in Santa Cruz County to follow suit. Our goal is to create a unified approach to banning plastic cigarette filters across the region, amplifying the impact of this policy and encouraging broader adoption statewide.
Together, we can continue to make strides toward a cleaner, healthier coast for all.
Thank you,
Surfrider Santa Cruz Chapter