National Skip the Straw Day
With Americans using around 500 million plastic straws a day, it's no surprise this campaign has been introduced. Steps are already being taken on a legislative level to ban the use of what is deemed to be unnecessary and wasteful plastic use, with New York City Council introducing legislation to ban food-service providers giving out single-use plastic straws last year. Even Starbucks has vowed to go totally strawless by the year 2020.
According to the National Geographic, over 8 million tonnes of trash flow into the world's oceans every year, and although straws, lightweight and small in size, may not be the top contributor, it is their size that makes them extremely harmful to birds, fish and other sea life, who consume them mistaking them for food. According to one study, if we continue polluting the oceans at the rate that we are, seaborne rubbish will outweigh fish by the year 2050! What a horrifying thought. There's never been a better time to step back and see the true consequences of our plastic consumption.
We know there have been thousands of 'anti-plastic' campaigns over the years, however, unlike most other campaigns, activists in the Skip the Straw effort not looking for laws or regulations to change, they are simply asking consumers to change their habits, and so is likely to be much more effective.
Our Top 5 Reusable Straws:
Koffie Straw - $16.50
Available @ Koffiestraw.com
Not only does this straw prevent unnecessary plastic waste, it also prevents those pesky coffee stains, keeping you pearly whites, well, pearly and white! Made of 100%, the straws are suitable for even hot drinks, and come with a thin brush to ensure ultimate hygiene!
Ever Eco On-The-Go Rose Gold Straw - $9
Available @ Anthropologie
Coming in an organic cotton pouch, this plated stainless steel straw with a rose gold finish is an essential for any style-conscious, environment-loving gal. Not just practical, this straw and pouch also acts as an accessory, sure to provoke many questions when you're out for your next coffee date!
Reusable Foldable Stainless Steel Straw - $7.99
Available @ Walmart
Marketed towards the 'outdoor traveller', in our opinion this straw has been MADE for your handbag! Simply fold it up and throw it into your bag wherever you are and you'll never be stuck.
Life Without Plastic Stainless Steel Straw - $13
Available @ Urban Outfitters
Similar to the rose gold stainless steel straw from Anthropologie, we're loving this set from Urban Outfitters. Coming with a long spoolie cleaner for ensured hygiene, if you're looking for a more neutral vibe, this one is for you.
Buluh Straws - $13 (pack of 8)
Available @ Amazon
The company behind the Buluh Straw claim they are 100% biodegradable, and so you could literally place them in the middle of a forest when you're done with them. They come in a packet of 8 and each have their own natural density and thickness, so there's bound to be the perfect one for whatever drink you're drinking!
Remember, if even half of us participate in Skip the Straw Day, that's 250 million less straws ending up in landfills or the ocean! We hope you have a great weekend, and make sure to tell the barista or bartender if you're out to hold on the straw!
Your TTG Girl Gang x
