Alternatives to Plastic Straws
What Your Family Can Do to Help?
National Geographic estimated that in the United States alone that 500 million plastic straws are used and thrown out daily. The National Park Service noted, “Eco-Cycle who currently hosts and promotes the Be Straw Free campaign further calculated using Milo’s estimate that Americans use these disposable utensils at an average rate of 1.6 straws per person per day.
Based on national averages, this equates to each person in the U.S. using about 38,000 straws between the ages of 5 and 65.” That’s way too many one-use non-biodegradable straws! Let’s look at alternatives!
Paper
Paper straws are great as one use straws. Unfortunately, they aren’t reusable but they are a great alternative if you’re out to eat and they aren’t other options or you forgot your reusable straws at home! Most of these straws are biodegradable and you can compost.
Metal
Stainless steel straws are a great reusable option! They are dishwasher safe and last a very long time, are easy to clean, and are durable.
Silicone
This is another great reusable option! These could be a safer alternative for families with children or elderly as they are softer than stainless steel and metal straws. Most are dishwasher safe and can handle heat and cold beverages well.
Glass
Glass straws are very durable and are hypoallergenic. They can be used with hot or cold liquids and are dishwasher and some are even microwaveable safe.