The Electronic Cigarette and Its Potential

(New York Times)

Essentially, an electronic cigarette functions the same as a regular paper cigarette but without the burning.

As the graphic illustrates: the electronic cigarette runs on a rechargeable battery. The battery powers a sensor which detects when air is sucked in. As the air is sucked in, liquid in the replaceable chamber is hearted and nicotine vapor is released along with a vapor mist that simulates the actual process of inhaling.

There are no harmful chemicals because no organic substances are being burned. You can smoke it indoors at no risk to you or the people around you.

Electronic cigarettes are reusable.
They do not rely on pesticides for production. They do not rely on trees for paper.

Next step: Purchase one and try it out.

A Realistic Approach

No one needs anymore evidence as to why smoking is bad. Everyone knows that Tobacco kills. Everyone knows about lung cancer. The aim of this project is not to "cure the world" of smoking. This project embraces the fact that despite immense tax increases, surgeon general warnings, and an unprecedented amount of government sponsored anti-smoking campaigns, 20% of Wisconsinites still light up.

In short, I'm not trying to stop smoking as much as I am trying to change the way people smoke. The recent technological innovation of electronic cigarettes allow for this study to take place. While it has been argued that electronic cigarettes can help curb nicotine addiction, I'm focused on the enviormental potential of the cigarette itself. As you will see, paper Cigarette production, consumption and disposal all severely impact the environment.