President Donald Trump has signed an executive order reversing the push for paper straws, reigniting the debate over single-use plastics. The order directs federal agencies to stop using paper straws and instead provide plastic ones, citing widespread dissatisfaction with the performance of paper alternatives.
During the signing ceremony, Trump criticized paper straws as ineffective and poorly designed, claiming they often break or dissolve too quickly. The order also calls for a national strategy to end the use of paper straws, to be developed within 45 days. However, it does not prevent states or cities from enforcing their own bans on plastic straws.
This decision represents a departure from the environmental policies of former President Joe Biden, who sought to reduce plastic waste by promoting alternatives like paper straws. Environmentalists have expressed concern that the move could hinder efforts to combat pollution, particularly in light of growing evidence about the harmful effects of plastics on ecosystems and human health.
Despite these concerns, some plastic straw manufacturers have welcomed the order. Ross Boyajian, owner of Diamond Straws, a California-based factory, sees the decision as a boost for his business. While the order may benefit domestic producers, its long-term impact on environmental goals remains uncertain.
