Straw Wars: The campaign keeping straws out of restaurants…and landfills

Straw Wars is a great campaign launched in London’s trendy Soho neighbourhood by restaurants, hotels and bars. Member businesses pledge to cut down the use—and eventual disposal—of plastic straws. Plastic straws are technically recyclable. But they’re not likely to be accepted in your commercial or residential recycling programs.

So what does that mean?

That one straw, which could be in use for just 15 minutes —or, let’s be honest, even less— will stay in the landfill for much, much longer than it’s ever useful for. The Straw Wars campaign organizers invite others in their industry to join their cause and stop providing straws unless a customer requests one.

Not in the restaurant or food service industry? The Straw Wars organizing team also encourages individuals to join the pledge, by refusing plastic straws wherever they can.

Find out more about the campaign: http://StrawWars.org/

Let’s take this a step further. Even when straws are necessary, there are still alternatives to the conventional plastic option…

What are some alternatives to plastic straws? 

The disposable option: Bésics™ straws are made from Ingeo™, a plant sugar-based material called polylactic acid (PLA). They are a compostable alternative to conventional plastic straws and will break down completely within 2 months in a commercial compost facility.

These straws will also break down in a home compost, but time periods will vary. Bésics™ straws are available here at BSIbio in both commercial and retail quantities. Please contact us for more details: admin@bsibio.com.

The reusable option: Stainless steel straws are reusable, dishwasher-safe and readily available at local grocers and online. They are also safe for hot beverages. What’s even better? You can easily make stainless steel straws yourself! Instructions via HoundsInTheKitchen.com

How will you cast your vote in the Straw Wars?