At a time when environmental activists like Greta Thunberg, and Leonard DiCaprio, name them… are preaching save the planet more than ever, accompanied by all these tech giants like Apple making strides in their commitment to environmental sustainability in their products aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. One of the things that can’t be overlooked is how we got here. This discussion can’t go without mentioning Plastics, being one of the major contributors to global emissions, and that’s according to the OECD 2022 report, plastics are responsible for over 1.8 billion tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions. What’s that, what does it mean? Simply put climate change and the planet’s ability to support life both plants and animals is supported by the natural greenhouse effect, that’s before human activities like, and in this particular case burning of plastics.
And now, one of the most commonly used plastic products is packaging materials, specifically food and beverage containers, many of which include plastic straws. Even with proper disposal, the environmental impact remains significant, as unreliable recycling infrastructure often leads to plastic waste ending up in landfills or incinerators.
While some regions, such as Europe, have banned plastic straws, the seriousness of global usage is reflected in the staggering statistic that 500 million straws are used daily in the U.S. alone. Now imagine the rest of the countries—with many of whom have no proper dumping and recycling system—and how this affects the earth’s environment.
Now, the good news, FinalStraw!
In response to this crisis, Emma Rose Cohen co-founded Final Straw, a company that developed the world’s first collapsible reusable straw, FinalStraw. Initially priced at $24.95, this innovation quickly gained traction, raising approximately $2 million on Kickstarter, showcasing strong consumer interest in sustainable alternatives.
The FinalStraw is crafted from durable stainless steel, designed for lifetime use, and folds into a compact case made from 100% post-consumer recycled plastic. The case, which is small enough to fit on a keychain or in a pocket, adds to its convenience for on-the-go use. Additional features include a small cleaning squeegee stored within the case, an eco-friendly design emphasizing recycled materials, and versatility for both hot and cold beverages, with the added benefit of being dishwasher safe.
Available on Amazon, the Final Straw website, and Kickstarter, this reusable straw is sold and shipped worldwide. Its popularity, however, has led to the emergence of knock-offs sold online, often at cheaper prices but lacking the original’s quality and sustainable design. Furthermore, according to its creators, using one FinalStraw can prevent 584 single-use straws from entering landfills and oceans each year, making it a practical solution for those looking to reduce their environmental footprint.
Environmental Impact
The introduction of FinalStraw is a significant step toward reducing plastic waste. By offering a practical, reusable option, Final Straw adds momentum to the larger battle against climate change, plastic pollution, and the harm done to the inhabitants of the waters. As more people wake up to the damage plastics cause, smart ideas like the FinalStraw make it easier—and more appealing—for everyone to adopt eco-friendly habits.
A Hope for a Sustainable Future
As the world grapples with plastic pollution, innovations like FinalStraw offer hope for a sustainable future. With the support of eco-conscious consumers and activists, we can reduce reliance on single-use plastics and protect our planet for generations.
