With all of the talk about climate change and pollution, you’ve likely already heard about plastic straw alternatives.
So, are plastic straws really that bad? Let us shed some light on the subject.
Are Straws Recyclable?
The average straw is made from polypropylene. This resin of plastic is identified as the number five when you look at its recycling code. Other things made from polypropylene include bottle caps, plastic cutlery, yogurt containers, etc. It is a highly recyclable plastic.
However, there are different types of polypropylene — and the one used in the production of plastic straws is not widely accepted. Even some of the biggest recycling centers that DO accept polypropylene, DO NOT accept plastic straws.
Why Using Plastic Straws is Bad
- When straws cannot be accepted by your curbside recycling program and they are still included in the recycling bins, you’re creating a bigger problem. This negligence can cost cities millions of dollars to remove these straws from the items that can actually be recycled.
- Most plastic straws are used at restaurants and bars. Therefore, it’s completely up to the business to be environmentally responsible and find a proper recycling program that accepts plastic straws. The problem is, not many take this extra step.
- Straws that end up being thrown away (and recycled improperly) will end up in either landfills or floating garbage patches in the ocean. Even though straws are small, a lot are used and they can add up faster than most items that are thrown away.
What You Should Do
There’s two things you should do to try and cut down on the amount of plastic straws that are used and disposed of improperly:
- Stop using all forms of plastic straws altogether. Do not buy them at the store and ask your server or bartender to hold off on giving you one when you order a drink.
- Live a straw-free life OR use straws made from Sand Straw, the Reusable Straw. Our Stainless Steel Straws not only help to reduce waste and pollution, we also give back to the environment by donating a portion of each sale to help support our oceans and wildlife.
