- President Donald Trump signed an executive order reversing federal policies promoting paper straws and restricting plastic straws, citing concerns over paper straw effectiveness and environmental impact. The order bans federal agencies from purchasing paper straws and promotes plastic straw use.
- The move rescinds a Biden administration policy aimed at phasing out single-use plastics for federal facilities by 2027 and 2035.
- Environmental groups criticized the decision, while the Plastics Industry Association praised it, highlighting a growing debate over plastic waste and paper straw alternatives.
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President Donald Trump signed an executive order Monday, Feb. 10, reversing federal policies that promoted the use of paper straws and restricted plastic straws. The order bans federal agencies from purchasing paper straws and directs them to ensure plastic straws are used within federal buildings.
The move rescinds a Biden administration policy that aimed to phase out federal purchases of single-use plastics by 2027 for food service operations and by 2035 for all federal facilities.
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Why did Trump take this action?
Trump has long opposed paper straws, arguing they “don’t work” and “fall apart too quickly.” His 2019 reelection campaign even sold Trump-branded reusable plastic straws, and over the weekend, he declared Biden’s plastic restrictions “DEAD!” in a social media post.
The executive order also requires a national strategy within 45 days to reduce the use of paper straws nationwide.
What are the environmental and health concerns?
Supporters of paper straws argued that single-use plastics contribute to ocean pollution and harm wildlife. Studies have shown that plastic waste, including straws, enters the ocean at alarming rates, breaking down into microplastics that affect marine life and human health.
However, Trump’s order cites concerns that paper straws may contain PFAS chemicals, also known as “forever chemicals.” These are found in some paper straws but not in plastic ones.
Some research suggests that paper straws require more water and energy to produce, raising questions about their overall environmental impact.
How has the public reacted?
Environmental groups criticized Trump’s decision, saying plastic waste is a growing global crisis. Oceana, an environmental advocacy group, argued the move reverses progress in reducing plastic pollution.
The Plastics Industry Association praised the order, with CEO Matt Seaholm calling it “a movement we should all get behind.” The group argued that plastic straws are more efficient, cost-effective and durable compared to paper alternatives.
Some Republican officials have framed paper straw mandates as unnecessary government overreach, while others note that many cities and states have already banned plastic straws due to environmental concerns.
What happens next?
The executive order takes effect immediately, requiring federal agencies to halt paper straw purchases.
Trump’s directive to develop a broader plan to reduce paper straw use nationwide could set up a larger legal and policy debate in the months ahead.
