Let’s chat about straws. I just shared a photo on Instagram, and now I’m here to give you a quick update about straws and the environment. This is just a glimpse into eco-friendly topics we’ll cover more this year. I’m not perfect with environmental practices, but I’m learning and hope you’ll join me.
So, about straws. They’re an easy change we can all make. The plastic straw ban is underway, and if you’re using one right now, it’s time to stop. While I’m usually not judgmental, I can’t help but judge plastic straws. It frustrates me when businesses use them. I recently suggested bamboo straws to a manager in Big Bear—they thought I was a bit odd, but at least the idea’s out there.
Straws are harming the ocean. Picture a cute otter with a straw stuck in its nose. That alone is a reason to stop using them. If you need more reasons, here are some facts:
– About 500 million straws are used and tossed daily.
– Plastic takes 200 years to decompose.
– Although recyclable, straws are too small and light to be sorted.
– In the ocean, they break down and harm marine animals and birds, and they end up in our water and sea salt.
– Annually, over a million seabirds and 100,000 marine animals die from ingesting plastic.
– Companies like Starbucks, McDonald’s, and Alaska Airlines are moving away from plastic straws by 2020.
Straws are part of a bigger plastic issue, along with plastic bags, bottle caps, and more. Even though straws are a small part of the problem, they’re a stepping stone to caring more about the ocean and environment.
Cutting out plastic straws is one of the easiest, cheapest steps you can take for the planet. Here are your options:
– Stop using straws altogether! They’re not only bad for the planet but for you too. They aren’t BPA-free and can cause wrinkles.
– If you love straws like I do, try reusable ones. I use glass straws at home and keep metal straws in my bag for on-the-go. I just bought silicone ones—let’s see how they do. Carrying your own straws is quite stylish.
– For business owners, steer clear of paper straws; they aren’t great, and customers will notice. Bamboo straws are the way to go. They’ll cost a bit more, but it’s worth it for the respect and inspiration you’ll earn from customers and other businesses.