In 2019, global annual production of plastic products reached 81.84 million tons, of which nearly 30,000 tons were plastic straws, equivalent to 46 billion straws. Each plastic straw has a lifespan of only 20 minutes, yet takes over 200 years to naturally degrade into small molecules. Due to the difficulty of recycling plastic straws, most are incinerated, and those entering waterways are often ingested by marine life, causing serious pollution and damage to the ecological environment. The scenes shown in documentaries-mountains of garbage, animals filled with trash, and melting polar ice caps-are not alarmist but realistic depictions.
Paper straws, as an alternative to plastic straws, have environmental advantages. Made from food-grade paper, they are considered green and environmentally friendly straws and are single-use, biodegradable products. Paper straws degrade within 3 to 4 months after disposal, meeting the hygiene requirements for food safety packaging in Europe and the United States. Furthermore, paper straws have no sharp burrs, making them safe to use and posing no harm to users.
However, the controversy surrounding paper straws has never ceased. Some argue that the return of paper straws is a step backward, given the longer lifespan of plastic straws. Others point out the difficulties in recycling paper straws, the difficulty in separating the coating from the paper, the high separation costs, and the pollution inherent in the papermaking process. Furthermore, paper straws soften easily when heated, making them less practical than plastic straws.
Regardless of the controversy, the movement to replace paper with plastic has begun. What humanity needs to protect is its future. Ultimately, technological advancements and the invention and innovation of new materials must revolve around human well-being. Because protecting the future is protecting ourselves.
