In a move that reignites the contentious debate over environmental policies, former President Donald Trump signed an executive order reversing a Biden administration policy aimed at phasing out federal purchases of single-use plastics, including straws. This decision underscores Trump's ongoing opposition to restrictions on plastic products, which he has consistently criticized. The Biden policy targeted the elimination of single-use plastics from food service operations, events, and packaging by 2027, and from all federal operations by 2035.
Trump's personal affinity for plastic straws is well-documented, as he famously installed a button in the Oval Office to summon staff to deliver Diet Coke, often enjoyed with these straws. Despite environmental concerns, Trump insists that using plastic straws is acceptable.
“It’s a ridiculous situation. We’re going back to plastic straws,” – Donald Trump
Environmental advocates have highlighted the detrimental impact of plastic straws, which take at least 200 years to decompose. As they degrade into microplastics, they threaten marine life, including turtles. The issue is exacerbated by the staggering number of straws used daily in the United States—more than 390 million—typically for less than 30 minutes each. Single-use plastics, such as straws, constitute about 40% of plastic production, contributing significantly to environmental pollution.
The Plastics Industry Association steadfastly supports the use of plastic straws. Matt Seaholm, the association’s president and CEO, expressed enthusiasm for the rollback.
“Straws are just the beginning,” – Matt Seaholm
The broader context of plastic pollution reveals a troubling picture. Global annual plastic production has surged, doubling since 2000 to approximately 460 million tonnes. This production boom coincides with inadequate recycling efforts; less than 10% of plastic waste is currently recycled. The environmental impact is profound, with the equivalent of one truckload of plastic waste entering the ocean every minute.
Trump's decision has drawn both support and criticism. Will Scharf, a commentator on the issue, argues that everyday Americans are directly affected by such policies.
“It really is something that affects ordinary Americans in their everyday lives,” – Will Scharf
Trump’s previous campaign capitalized on this sentiment by selling reusable straws on its website in 2020, criticizing the inefficacy of paper alternatives.
"Liberal paper straws don’t work," – Trump's campaign statement
Despite the global awareness of plastic waste's harmful effects, international efforts to address the crisis have stumbled. A summit held last year failed to reach a consensus on tackling plastic waste, despite widespread acknowledgment of the problem's severity.
“I don’t think that plastic is going to affect the shark very much as they’re… munching their way through the ocean,” – Donald Trump