Plastic Straw Alternatives in Manila

Monday, March 06, 2017

I did it at last. Late last year I finally bought a metal straw for myself. This is a BIG DEAL because not all plastic straws can be recycled. Feel like your trash doesn’t make a difference in the world? I was shocked to find out that our tiny country is the THIRD biggest contributor of plastic in the ocean IN THE WORLD. This is alarming! Millions of straws are used every year and dumped in the ocean and for what, 5 minutes of convenience? C’mon people, we need to be better than this. Using a metal straw is a SIMPLE way to be part of the solution.


I understand that particular situations need straws:
1. Health condition, coming from a surgery or sickness
2. Drinking in transit or a moving vehicle
3. Shakes, smoothies, etc

Do you really need a straw for your soda, juice, water and other cold drinks? You don't. So please do not ask for a straw. I remember 8 years ago when eco bags were still a foreign concept here in Manila. Now it's part of people's consciousness and everyday lives thanks to government rulings, initiatives by companies and organizations and public awareness. Plastic bag usage has gone down. It is my hope and dream that plastic straw usage will be the same. Some cities have straw-less Fridays already. There is much more than can be done.
 
Find a case for your straw that will make it easier for you to leave it in your bag. I opted for a plastic case so that even if the straw is still wet, I won’t worry about getting my other things wet.

Here's what you can do:
1. Buy a metal or glass straw. I bought mine from Last Straw MNL and Go Zero. It came with a brush which was very important to me. Here are other places you can purchase a straw from: Crate and Barrel, True Value, Green Selections, and Collograph.
2. If you do not have one yet, please refuse a straw when ordering a drink.
3. If you forgot or really need that straw, take it home with you and add it to your eco brick.

That tiny change in your lifestyle can help the planet in a tremendous way. Make the switch today, I beg of you. If you have any questions about this, please feel free to leave a comment here or send me an email. I would love to help you reuse a straw today and every day.


Let's connect! The blog finally has it's own Facebook Page and you can also find me on Instagram.

You Might Also Like

0 comments

Add me on Facebook