As Donald Trump in his new term as President of USA continues to sign executive orders…
on a multitude of areas impacting most of the American way of life, he has lately turned his attention to the common straw, which to him symbolises Governmental overreach and overzealous environmental policy alongside his view on their efficacy.
On the one hand the environmental impact of manufacturing plastic straws is miniscule compared to the potential that say a reduction in food waste could have, especially in America. However, they symbolise a “throw away” society and culture which disregards the impact that single use plastics have on our wider environment. One only has to see the devastating impact that plastic waste has on our oceans to understand that we need to be aware of what we manufacture however small and that we ensure its safe management once it comes to the end of its life.
As said, protecting the environment is made up of both significant initiatives such as the positive regulatory change the new Government is beginning to deliver but as important are the individual acts we make in our daily lives as consumers. Reducing our use of single use plastics is where we can all make a gesture to creating a better environment.
So, in your daily lives remember that each small gesture you make towards the environment does contribute, especially if we all do it and if you need a straw to drink with then perhaps opt for a reusable metal one rather than ask for a plastic one.
