There are thousands to millions of people using drinking straws on a daily basis. Plenty of dentists recommend the use of drinking straws. It pulls sugary liquids into the mouth without risking harm to tooth enamel. Using biodegradable drinking straws protects the environment as it protects tooth enamel. Tons of plastic drinking straws end up in the garbage across the globe. Replacing them with biodegradable plastic straws will lessen the plastic in the trash.
Biodegradable plastics, also known as bioplastics, are from natural plant-based raw materials. These materials enable the natural decomposition process of biodegradable plastic straws. The bacteria and fungi in the surrounding environment metabolize the plastic. They also help break down its structure. These plastics turn to compost after a certain period of time. There are so many reasons why people should use biodegradable plastic straws. The following are some of the most crucial advantages it has to offer.
Carbon emission reduction
Using biodegradable plastic straws reduces carbon emission during the manufacturing process. As mentioned above, the materials used to create biodegradable plastics are plant-based. This allows for minimal carbon emission during the composting process. Excess carbon in the atmosphere is harmful not only for people but for the environment, too. The carbon cycle changes impact each reservoir. It makes the planet warmer and makes bodies of water more acidic. Acidic water puts lives in danger.
Less energy consumption
There is less amount of energy needed for manufacturing biodegradable plastic straws. Biodegradable plastics come from natural sources such as corn and switchgrass. These materials make them conserve non-renewable energy sources like petroleum. There is no need to recycle fossil fuels. The lesser energy demand reduces pollution and environmental impact.
Less waste production
Plastics make up about 32 million tons of waste each year. Only around 9% of that goes into recycling programs. The rest takes up landfills and other waste disposal programs for more than a century. Biodegradable plastic straws end up in the compost or recycled. The stipulation to dispose of biodegradable plastic straws reduces the amount of waste production. Land areas used for landfills can turn into agricultural, residential, or industrial areas.
Creation of new export industries
There are plenty of mature markets for plastic products. Most of them are looking for ways to lessen their carbon and waste footprints. Using biodegradable plastic straws eliminates the impact of pollution on the environment. Countries around the world are now competing to perfect making biodegradables. It is a top priority across the globe because it is a great money making tool.
Transitioning to the use of biodegradable plastic straws matters to a lot of people. Who would not want to save the Earth and have a healthy, happy population? It will not be surprising if an emissions-neutral system becomes available by 2050.