You might have heard about how plastic bottles pollute our planet. But did you know that drinking straws also contribute to plastic pollution? Plastic material products do not degrade at all. Many studies have proven that plastic cannot break down for over 100 years. It means that even if they were disposed of properly, they would still remain in our water systems forever. If we are looking to avoid the use of these products, then we need to start using natural alternatives instead.
What are Compostable Straws
Compostable Straws are biodegradable and made from natural materials like corn, sugarcane, wheat, rice, and potato starch. They break down into smaller pieces over time. When composting, carbon dioxide (CO2) is released into the air, and oxygen is consumed. Carbon is turned back into carbon dioxide, while oxygen turns back into the water. However, unlike plastic straws, compostable straws don't just degrade; they completely decompose, leaving behind nothing but carbon dioxide and water vapor (H2O).
Once Compostable Straws fully decompose, less trash ends up in landfills, waterways, oceans, or even in our food supply. Using reusable and biodegradable products reduces the amount of waste produced and reduces plastic pollution, especially single-use plastic straws. These straws are designed to break down naturally and not end up in our oceans if disposed of properly. Many countries have started banning one time used plastic straws because of their negative environmental effects. Compostable straws help us take a step towards reducing plastic waste.
The Pros & Cons Of Compostable Straws
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There are different types of compostable straws available to purchase in the market. You can choose between bamboo, sugarcane, corn, and more. However, when considering replacing plastic straws, many have chosen paper straws as their primary alternative because of their price. But what if I tell you that paper straws are only sometimes the best option?
Paper drinking straws may not be sturdy enough to handle liquids
Paper straws are paper, so if they are placed in liquid, they will get soaked no matter how much coating they have. Once the paper straws are soaked, they are completely unusable in just a few minutes. This is because the walls of the straw started sticking together, and drinks couldn't get through. It will begin to bend and fold into your drink.
A report of young children nearly choking after drinking from paper straws. Wet paper straws can become soft, which can cause parts to fall off and form clumps that are difficult to swallow and can lead to choking.
Luckily, in Canada, we have a wide variety of plant-based straws available in the market besides paper straws. They are available in different shapes and sizes to meet each person's needs, from standard drinking straws to bubble tea straws. It is yours to discover and take the initiative to change for the better.
Straw Matters, a Canadian-based sugarcane straw manufacturer, provides samples upon request so you can try them out before the purchase. Click here to get free samples.
