There are a lot of small things we can do to be more environmentally friendly in our day-to-day lives, and using straws is one of them. Straws may seem like a small thing, but they can actually have a big impact on the environment, especially the oceans.
Here are three ways you can use straws more responsibly and help reduce their environmental impact.
What Is the Impact of Using Plastic Straws?
A huge amount (130,000 tonnes) of plastic waste goes to the oceans each year in Australia alone. Every day, people around the world use millions of plastic straws. But what happens to all those straws after they’re used? Many of them end up in the ocean, where they can cause serious problems for marine life.
Sea turtles are particularly vulnerable to plastic straw pollution. These creatures often mistake plastic for food, and when they eat it, they can block their digestive tracts and starve to death.
And it’s not just sea turtles that are at risk. Fish, birds and other animals can also be harmed by ingesting plastic straws or becoming entangled in them. Fortunately, there are ways to help reduce the impact of plastic straws on the environment.
How Can I Reduce My Plastic Straw Usage?
A few ways to reduce your plastic usage are as follows:
- Avoid using single-use plastics. Single-use plastics are items that are used once and then thrown away. They include not only plastic straws but also water bottles, plastic bags, coffee cups and takeout containers.
- Invest in reusable alternatives. Reusable straws, for example, can be used over and over again. They are made of durable materials, such as stainless steel or glass, so they can last for years.
- Switch to compostable straws. One way to reduce the impact of plastic straws is to switch to eco-friendly alternatives. There are a variety of eco-friendly straws on the market, including compostable plastic straws. These straws can be used just like regular plastic straws, but they’re much better for the environment.
These are just a few of the many ways you can reduce your plastic usage. By making small changes in your everyday habits, you can make a big difference in the fight against plastic pollution.
Benefits of Using Eco-Friendly Straws
There are many benefits of using eco-friendly straws. Let’s take a closer look at each of them to further understand the growing demand for these plastic alternatives.
1. They Are Reusable
One of the best things about eco-friendly straws is that they’re reusable. This means that you can use them over and over again, which reduces your overall impact on the environment.
2. They Are Recyclable
Eco-friendly straws are also recyclable. This means that you can recycle them at the end of their life instead of throwing them away in the trash.
3. They Are Environmentally Friendly
Eco-friendly straws are made from materials that are environmentally friendly. For example, bamboo is a sustainable material that doesn’t require pesticides or fertilisers to grow. Stainless steel is another environmentally friendly material that can be recycled at the end of its life.
What Are the Most Eco-Friendly Straws?
With the recent focus on plastic pollution, many people are looking for more eco-friendly straws. There are a few different types of straws that are considered to be more environmentally friendly than traditional plastic straws.
Paper disposable straws are one option. They are made from renewable resources and can be recycled. Bamboo straws are another option. They are also made from renewable resources and can be composted.
Compostable straws made of cornstarch are another type of eco-friendly straw. They have the same look, strength and feel as plastic straws but without their adverse effects on the environment. These straws are highly compostable, making them an excellent choice for people who are conscious of their carbon footprint.
Bonnie Bio: Sustainable Compostable Packaging in Australia
If you’re looking for a more sustainable way to drink your drinks, consider using compostable straws.
Bonnie Bio has a great selection of eco-friendly straws made from plant materials that will break down in soil much faster than regular plastic. Not only are they better for the environment, but they also taste great and won’t get soggy like traditional paper straws.
Check out all of our compostable straw options and start your eco-friendly goals today.
