Did you know that plastic single use straws are the 7th top form of plastic pollution? Yes, there are other forms of plastic that are higher on the list such as plastic bottles, plastic wrap, etc. But, do we really need plastic straws in most cases? Their size and shape make them especially problematic to sea creatures. They really don't recycle very well in most systems due to being so lightweight and small. The micro-particles of plastic or microplastics have been found ingested by birds, turtles, sealife, and show up in things such as sea salt or tap water. Most of us don't really don't need straws for most drinks and if we do, there are other solutions. Single use plastic straws are one small plastic item that we could work to reduce, if not eliminate, by just saying no to them.
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I realize there are those with medical issues where straws are pretty much a necessity. Fortunately, for them and even for the rest of us, there are other types of straws. Glass straws work very well at home. I have several in different sizes, including larger ones for smoothies. They are sturdy and clean up easily in the dishwasher. And, yes I have dropped them a couple of times and so far they have not broken ( knock on wood!). Yet, I realize those don't work in all situations. Those with medical issues could be allowed plastic straws until a better solution for them could be developed.
Straws are available made from grain which are non-GMO. Also, straws are made from paper, metal, and bamboo. Bio Straws, made from potato starch, are said to compost quickly and are completely biodegradable. Another product which is made from plants is Repurpose Straws. These might be good options for hospital meals and situations where glass and metal would not work.
The other side of plastic straws to consider is how they impact your health directly. The chemicals from plastic could be absorbed through your oral mucous membrane located inside your lips and mouth. Just as sublingual absorption works in taking medications, it would seem that absorbing the polypropylene and the plasticizers could be possible with plastic straws when drinking acidic liquids. This would be a big concern with the small and growing bodies of children.
Most plastics are endocrine disruptors that end up stored in our fat. Even though they still affect us, our body does this to try to protect our vital organs by keeping the toxins buried away from them in our fat. And, on top of that, plastics are capable of absorbing other chemicals and toxins which only add to the burden in our body. Bottom line....plastics break down into microscopic particles in the environment that are absorbed by everything, including us. And, they don't go away...ever.
Earth Day is Monday, April 22nd 2019, so now is a good time for a reminder to care for our planet and our home. There is so much that could be said about plastic regarding our health and our environment (which IS ground one for impacting our health). But, for now we could all start with a simple change. Give up or switch your straw habit. All of us and Mother Earth will thank you.
