Categories: Quick Tips

Friday Quickie: Just. Say. No. (to Straws)

Did you know that Americans use an estimated 500 million straws every DAY? That would fill 46,400 large school buses (just of straws, sans kids) each year. Crazy, right?

Plastic straws are used for 5 minutes (or an hour max) and although some are recyclable (as typically #5 plastic), most people don’t. Plus, people typically use straws in restaurants and you don’t know what happens to those straws behind closed doors. (Hint: trash?) You know what they say, a second on the lips, forever on the landfill. (Or, something like that. right?!?)

Next time you’re dining out, forego the straw. Politely ask your server to get your drink sans straw (and perhaps your fellow diners will follow suite!)

Can’t live without a beloved straw? BYO! There’s glass & stainless steel varieties (and starting at 2 bucks on Amazon)!

Oh, and take this 9 year old’s Straw-free pledge while you’re at it.

 

Photo: Indian Public Media

Julie Hancher

Julie Hancher is the co-founder and Executive Director of Green Philly, an independent media organization making sustainability accessible, affordable and actionable. Since launching Green Philly in 2008, she has grown it from a passion project into a leading voice for local climate storytelling, pairing impactful journalism with community events and experiences. Julie is a frequent speaker on climate, media innovation and the future of local journalism, and is the creator of SustainPHL and EcoFair. Outside of Green Philly, you can find her hiking, biking, traveling, or exploring Philadelphia.

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Julie Hancher

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