Trump slams paper straws, pledges to revert to plastic

In a move that has sparked debate, US President Donald Trump announced on social media his plans to sign an executive order "ending the ridiculous Biden push for paper straws, which don't work," adding, “BACK TO PLASTIC!”

Trump’s remarks reflect his long-standing opposition to environmental policies aimed at reducing plastic use, which he views as counterproductive. This decision follows his administration’s broader efforts to roll back environmental regulations, including withdrawing from the Paris Climate Agreement and deregulating various industries under his "drill, baby, drill" agenda.

The debate over paper straws intensified after the Biden administration set a goal to eliminate single-use plastic items, such as drinking straws, across government agencies by 2035. The push for paper straws was part of Biden’s efforts to reduce plastic pollution, including a 2032 ban on single-use plastics in public lands.

Trump has previously voiced frustration with paper straws, claiming they fall apart quickly and fail to meet consumer needs. During his 2020 campaign, he mocked the initiative, saying the paper alternatives are inconvenient, particularly for those wearing nice clothing. He also capitalized on the issue, selling plastic straws with the slogan “Liberal paper straws don’t work.”

Environmental groups have criticized Trump’s stance, arguing that prioritizing plastic again goes against the need for more sustainable practices. Organizations like Oceana have expressed disappointment, warning that Trump’s decision could worsen the environmental crisis caused by plastic pollution, especially in the oceans.

Additionally, recent studies have raised concerns about chemicals in both paper and plastic straws. A study found that most paper straws contain detectable amounts of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), harmful chemicals that persist in the environment, posing risks to both human health and wildlife. While plastic straws themselves are free of PFAS, concerns about their long-term environmental impact remain.

Trump’s decision comes amid his broader agenda to deregulate environmental standards, leading to further tensions over climate change policies. Environmentalists argue that this move signals a step backward in efforts to address plastic pollution and climate change.

While some support the return to plastic, many fear that Trump’s executive order could set back efforts to reduce plastic waste and shift toward more sustainable alternatives. The debate over paper versus plastic straws has become a symbol of the larger struggle to balance economic, environmental, and consumer needs in an era increasingly aware of pollution’s cost.

The executive order, expected to be signed in early February, will mark a significant policy shift, but its long-term impact on the environment and public health remains uncertain.