Every year, 5.8 trillion cigarettes are consumed, leading to the generation of a significant amount of hazardous litter commonly known as cigarette butts (CBs), and considered as the most prevalent discarded item on the planet. This paper aims to collect and discuss comprehensively all available studies on the composition, toxicity and alternative solutions proposed by the scientific community to recycle cigarette butts in various applications. Previously published papers have already disclosed that this small pollutant contains a multitude of toxicants and hazardous chemical compounds, and could pose a serious threat to all forms of life, including human beings, if not managed properly. Several methods have been investigated, including recycling cigarette butts in construction materials (ceramics, fired clay bricks, and asphalt concrete), Sound absorption, corrosion inhibitor, biodiesel, source of porous and charred carbon. The advantages, limitations, and recommendations required for the development of each proposed solution were highlighted. These findings provide a practical guide towards a sustainable tobacco industry and assist decision-makers in enforcing their vision for this small toxic litter.