✅Early morning iced coffee run
✅Lunchtime meal replacement smoothie
✅Late night chocolate milkshake fix
✅Using three different plastic straws in one day
It’s estimated that, in the US alone, over 500 million single-use straws are thrown away each day. 500 million. Just think how much we could decrease that number, simply by using a reusable straw instead.
But, why? Because it’s “the cool thing” to do right now? Because you saw a video about it on Facebook? Well, yes, but here are 5 more substantial reasons to skip the straw next time.
1. 20 Minutes of Use Means 200 Years on Earth
You read that right. One plastic straw takes about 200 years to decompose, and sadly because they’re so small, they can’t withstand the recycling process. So, every single one ends up in the trash.
In fact, the trash is the intended destination for half of the plastic we use, as 50% is manufactured for single use. Unfortunately, if we continue business as usual, by 2050 there will be more plastic in the ocean than fish. Which brings me to my next point...
2. Save the Sea Turtles!
Each year, 8-12 million tons of plastic make it into the oceans (mostly… plastic straws). And it’s really not good for the wildlife. Straws and other plastics can get sucked up noses or mistaken for food. In fact, each year, 1 million seabirds and 100,000 marine animals die simply from ingesting plastic.
If you want some heart wrenching proof, check out this video of a straw being pried out of a sea turtles nose and this photo of all the plastic that a dead seabird ingested.
3. They’re Really Not Healthy For You
Plastic can absorb different toxic chemicals, which seep into our food and drink. Scientists recently found this out, and realized that it's even more common when the straw, drink or cup is hot. Typically, those flimsy plastic straws you get at a restaurant won't contain the infamous BPA (which is more commonly found in stronger, harder plastics), but that doesn't mean that they are fully chemical-free.
4. Everyone's Doing It
Okay, not everybody, but you catch my drift. It’s a popular movement right now. States like New York, California and Hawaii are working on banning plastic straws. Companies like Walt Disney World, Bon Appetit and Alaska Airlines are starting to use alternatives. The whole country of Scotland has promised to be straw-free by 2019. So, yeah, there are a lot of people doing it.
5. It's Actually Pretty Easy
Aside from simply saying no and sipping straight from the cup, there are a lot of other alternatives. From silicone to steel to glass, there are many different reusable straws to choose from. Plus, they come in lots of colors, patterns and designs. The hardest part is just remembering to use it.
Along with straws, there are plenty of alternatives to cutting other plastic items out of your daily routine. You can read more about that here.
Straws Suck, KNW Gear Doesn't
Plus, every purchase helps fund & host wilderness cleanups. Check out some of our favorites in stock right now, and join us at a cleanup!
Keep it Simple Unisex Tee
Leave It Wild Sticker Pack
Night Camp Blanket
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