President Donald Trump on Monday signed an executive order “to end the procurement and forced use of paper straws,” saying they are ineffective and contain harmful chemicals.
The order came after Trump promised last week to reverse former President Joe Biden’s “ridiculous” push for paper straws over plastic. Trump’s order also calls for developing a strategy to “alleviate the forced use of paper straws nationwide” within 45 days.
“The Federal government is directed to stop purchasing paper straws and ensure they are no longer provided within Federal buildings,” Trump’s executive order said. “The irrational campaign against plastic straws has forced Americans to use nonfunctional paper straws. This ends under President Trump.”
The Biden administration rolled out a plan in August 2024 to phase out the government’s use of all plastic bottles, straws, cups, cutlery, and disposable plastic bags by 2035.
Trump’s order stated that some research shows that paper straws are not better for the environment or consumers.
For example, a Belgian study published in 2023 found that out of plastic, paper, glass, and bamboo straws, paper straws contain the most perfluoroalkylate and polyfluoroalkylate substances (PFAS), which are often referred to as “forever chemicals.” These “forever chemicals” can bleed from the straw into the drink, carrying potential health risks.
“Paper straws are not the eco-friendly alternative they claim to be – studies have shown that producing paper straws can have a larger carbon footprint and require more water than plastic straws,” the order said.
The president also cited the cost of paper straws compared to plastic ones and pointed out that paper straws will often come wrapped in plastic.
Some states, such as California and New Jersey, have single-use plastic bans in effect, prohibiting restaurants from handing out plastic straws or cutlery unless a customer specifically asks for them.
“Cities and states across America have banned paper straws, caving to pressure from woke activists who prioritize symbolism over science,” the order said.
“President Trump’s policies are promoting economic growth, while still maintaining standards that allow Americans to have among the cleanest air and water in the world,” the order continues. “This marks a sharp contrast from the previous Administration, which wasted American taxpayer dollars on virtue signaling instead of implementing effective solutions.”
The executive order cited other actions the Trump administration has taken on the environment, including improving forest management to prevent wildfires, suspending the expansion of windmill farms, and pursuing energy independence.
