Hey everyone! Have you heard the news?
President Donald Trump has decided to bring back plastic straws because he says paper straws “don’t work”! 😮
A few days ago, President Trump signed an order to reverse a plan that was trying to reduce the use of plastic straws in the United States. Instead, he wants to keep using plastic straws because he thinks they are better. He even said on his social media, “Enjoy your next drink without a straw that disgustingly dissolves in your mouth!!!”
But why is this important? 🤔
Many people are worried about plastic pollution. Plastic straws, after we’re done using them, often end up in the ocean. This can hurt animals like turtles, fish, and birds. 🐢🐠🐦
In fact, millions of tons of plastic waste enter the world’s oceans every year! That’s like dumping a whole garbage truck full of plastic into the ocean every minute! 🌊🚛
Some people and companies have started using paper straws instead of plastic ones. Paper straws can break down more easily and are less harmful to the environment.
Environmental groups are saying that President Trump’s decision isn’t helping. Christy Leavitt from Oceana, a group that helps protect the oceans, said, “We can no longer ignore one of the biggest environmental threats facing our oceans and our planet today.”
Did you know? 🤓
- Over 390 million straws are used every day in the United States! That’s a LOT of straws!
- Plastic straws can take over 200 years to decompose, which means they stick around for a very long time.
- Tiny bits of plastic, called microplastics, can end up in the stomachs of animals, and even in our food!
What can we do to help? 🌱
- Try using reusable straws made of metal or bamboo.
- Say “no” to straws when you don’t need them.
- Help spread the word about keeping our oceans clean.
What do you think about this decision? Will you choose plastic or paper, or maybe no straw at all? 😊
Reference(s):
Trump pushes for plastic straws as he declares paper ones 'don't work'
cgtn.com
