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Study: Paper Straws Raise Pollution Concerns
1 Nov
Summary
- Paper straws may pose greater pollution health risks than plastic.
- Assessment measured pollution from production to disposal.
- Study did not measure chemical leaching into drinks.
A South Korean assessment has revealed potential environmental and health concerns associated with paper straws, suggesting they may carry a greater pollution-related burden than conventional plastic straws. The study, commissioned by South Korea's Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment, compared paper, plastic, biodegradable plastic, and bio-based polyethylene straws.
Researchers analyzed impacts from production through disposal, finding that paper straws scored 6.33 times higher than plastic straws in an estimate of cancer-related harm from pollution. This score reflects pollution generated during manufacturing and disposal phases, not direct health risks from using the straws.
Conventional plastic straws performed best in 10 of the 16 environmental categories examined. However, the assessment did not measure chemical leaching into beverages or assess health outcomes among users. Based on the findings, researchers recommended that disposable straws be provided only upon request.
Lawmakers have also expressed skepticism regarding the environmental benefits of straw alternatives, with former President Donald Trump criticizing paper straws for their perceived ineffectiveness and potential health risks. A 2023 study also detected PFAS, or 'forever chemicals,' in several straw brands, most frequently in paper ones.
