Alternatives to Plastic Straws to Skip Single-Use Plastic
Plastic straws may be small, but the negative impact they can have on the environment is a huge problem. Their compact nature makes them difficult to recycle, and it is estimated that 8.3 billion straws end up polluting the world’s beaches. Fortunately, people are starting to recognize the severity of this issue and using alternatives to plastic straws has turned into a movement.
Reusable straws are an excellent alternative to plastic ones because, as their name suggests, you can use them more than once! This sends fewer straws to landfills and cuts down on manufacturing and packaging waste too.
Paper Straws
Paper straws are compostable at commercial composting facilities. They break down into organic materials leaving a smaller footprint on earth. But it is generally less durable than plastic straws and the other alternatives on this list.
Bamboo Straws
Derived from bamboo stalks, it is an environmentally friendly alternative that can be composted at the end of its life, but it can splinter with prolonged or rough use, difficult to clean and can only be used one time
Metal Straws
Metal straws are extremely durable, can be reused many times and they are dishwasher safe. The disadvantage was that they are very hard and can pose a risk of chipped teeth if the consumer bites or misuses the straw. It can’t be used with hot beverages; they can burn user’s lips.
Glass Straws
Although glass straws are durable, they can break under pressure.
Reusable Silicone Straw with a carrying case
If you like the idea of a collapsible straw for easier portability but are concerned about chipping your teeth or searing and/or numbing your lips with hot or super cold beverages, The Ecofairy’s Silicone Straws maybe your happy medium. 100% reusable and plastic free, BPA-free and dishwasher-safe, these collapsible (really, foldable) silicone straws are soft yet durable.
Silicone straws are a great option for facilities who serve children, seniors, or persons with disabilities. Silicone straws provide a softer alternative to metal and glass straws. Patrons don’t have to worry about accidentally hitting their teeth or biting a hard straw.
At The EcoFairy, our goal is to help you build a more sustainable life by offering you a line of reusable products. We offer products that last and that will help you reduce the amount of plastic you use.
More info on our website: https://www.theecofairy.com