Ban Plastic Straws?

[gaiadiversity]

Anyone else wondering about the current fad to stop using plastic straws? Is it because of the image of the sea turtle with a straw through it's nose or that they are a one-time use product?

Either way, it seems like the ditch-plastic-straws campaign has taken over the world as if it was a newly discovered threat. Starbucks promises to stop using plastic straws by 2020 (Why can't they stop now?). A few U.S. cities are now considering banning plastic straws, similar to a plastic bag ban in some areas. And, some environmental groups are calling for an end to plastic straws as if they are the new icon of environmental discord and destruction.

Don't get me wrong, I think this is a good thing. However, why the intense focus on straws? It's as if the mighty straw has become the main plastic problem... But, straws are not that by themselves.

How about plastic bottles and bottle caps? How about cigarette lighters? Sporks? Toothbrushes? Plastic bags? How about anything made from plastic?

My point is that plastics are ever-present in our lives, and not just in straw form. It's not the straws fault, but our dependence on plastics in its many forms.

We have choices that can make a difference. Yes, say no to the plastic straw, but I feel it's important to strive to reduce our daily dependence on one-time use plastics, be it a straw, plastic bag or vegetable container.

If you've stuck with me so far check out this video I made when I was on Midway Atoll. This says more than I could ever convey:

[Polly Hennessey]

1. Well, I now use paper straws

and really like them. I also have a cache of silicone straws. Also, here in California most of us have made the transition to reusable grocery bags. At first, it was funny - we either left them at home or in the car. Now I never leave home without my reusable bags. I do, however, agree with you about other plastics. My feeling is that one small step is a beginning.

[PoindexterOglethorpe]

2. For what it's worth, I never use straws unless -- and this is maybe five times a year --

I've purchased a soft drink while driving cross country, and I want to keep the lid on and not worry about spills when driving. In restaurants, I've been puzzled for many years now that they serve a drink and automatically give a straw with it. Excuse me, but can't you just pick up the glass and drink?

I still miss paper straws, and I haven't seen one in decades.

[Jane Austin]

4. You must have really good teeth.

Mine are very cold-sensitive, and a straw is a must.

[PoindexterOglethorpe]

6. My teeth are very cold sensitive.

When I swallow I don't swirl the drink around in my mouth. Just use my tongue. My top front four teeth are a bridge, which may make a difference, but I have to be very careful when eating ice cream, not to let it touch the other teeth.

[Ponietz]

3. The Pacific Ocean is the world's dumpster

[link:https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-018-22939-w|

[Squinch]

5. Have to start somewhere. It seems straws and plastic bags have caught the collective imagination.

I say it's a good thing and will lead to other efforts.

Don't knock it.

But I do agree with you about Starbucks. 2020? WTF?