Straws. You grab them without thinking. But lately, they’ve been a talking point. Not because they’ve changed, but because Donald Trump made them part of his latest message: plastic is back.
It’s not just about convenience. Not entirely, anyway. For Trump, it’s also about politics. About rolling back regulations. Paper straws? He called them ineffective. His words: “Back to plastic!”
What’s Behind the Debate?
Plastic straws stick around. That’s the issue. They don’t break down. Oceans, rivers, beaches—they end up everywhere.
But paper straws? They’re supposed to be the solution. Except they’re not. They get soggy, break apart, and, let’s face it, most people don’t like them. For some, they’re a minor inconvenience. For others, a dealbreaker.
Trump’s argument is simple. Plastic works. And he’s ready to bring it back, reversing Biden’s push to eliminate single-use plastics in federal buildings by 2027.
Plastic or Paper: The Real Problem
Neither option is perfect. Plastic lasts too long. Paper doesn’t last long enough. And while the focus is on straws, it’s really about more than that. It’s about waste, pollution, and what we’re willing to change.
Trump’s critics say his move undermines progress. Supporters? They see it as a win for common sense. The debate isn’t new, but it’s far from over.
Where Does This Leave Us?
For businesses, Trump’s message is a mixed bag. Lower costs, fewer complaints from customers who hate paper straws. But at what cost to the environment?
Environmental groups are gearing up for a fight. For them, this is bigger than straws. It’s about the planet. About the message we’re sending.
A Final Thought
Straws are small. The issue is not. Trump’s push for plastic isn’t just about sipping your drink. It’s about choices. Convenience or sustainability? Short-term fixes or long-term solutions?
For now, the decision isn’t ours to make. But the conversation? That’s just getting started.
