Filter the Future – An Alpbach IDEA Success Story
What began as an Alpbach IDEA, incubated by Club Alpbach France in 2024, has grown into a global coalition tackling one of the most overlooked sources of marine pollution: cigarette butts.
How can we turn bold ideas into real-world change? At the European Forum Alpbach, Alpbach IDEAS provide the answer – empowering long-term, sustainable initiatives across Europe.
One such IDEA, launched by the Club Alpbach France, has become a leader in addressing the elephant in the pool: cigarette butts pollution. These are one of the main highly toxic polluters of the hydrosphere, ranking among the most ecotoxic and reprotoxic pollutants. Yet, they are absent from all major conversations this year.
Determined to change that, FilterTheFuture.eu emerged at a timely opportunity: the upcoming revision of the European Tobacco Products Directive, offering a rare shot to act. The initiative was launched during the UN Oceans Conference 2025 (UNCO3) as a coalition of scientists, NGOs, youth delegates, and cities, advocating for the introduction of ecotoxicity warnings on cigarette packs (similar to health ones).
Its members are united by a shared goal: ensuring that the massive pollution of cigarettes is finally held accountable and to make Europe lead by example.
At the European Forum Alpbach 2025, the conversation continues. Through several sessions in the Climate Track, we explore how to better protect our oceans.
Check out the sessions taking place during the EFA25:
Hike I The Alps in a Changing Climate: Navigating Impacts and Adaptation
This session examines the complex climate challenges facing the Alpine region within the Euregio context, exploring cross-sectoral impacts and key opportunities to strengthen resilience and foster sustainable development in these vital mountain landscapes.
Valuing the Oceans: Challenges and Opportunities
The oceans are increasingly exploited, putting biodiversity at risk. This seminar explores how to protect and govern marine resources. It highlights the roles of governments, civil society, and science, as well as future opportunities.
Navigating the Currents: Europe’s Ocean Leadership After Nice
2025 is a defining moment for Europe’s role in global ocean governance. This session gathers leaders from policy, science, and diplomacy to discuss how the EU can turn ambition into action. It highlights the risks of delay and the opportunities for coordinated protection of biodiversity beyond national borders.
A Food, Water and Nature Union: Europe’s Survival Plan
Integrating agriculture, water management, and nature restoration is key to securing Europe’s food systems and biodiversity. A unified approach can transform landscapes, foster a greener economy, and ensure long-term sustainability – if political will, fair transitions, and bold reforms align.
Alpbach IDEAS
Alpbach IDEAS is a yearlong journey initiated by the European Forum Alpbach that aims to tackle pressing challenges on a community, societal and global level within the four thematic tracks of the EFA.