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One small collapsible straw for [wo]man ...


One tiny Eco-friendly leap for planet Earth.

After watching the news coverage on the Amazon Rainforest Fires,
I started to look into what this means for Mother Earth.

First, I'd like to start by clearing up some misinformation.

Per experts and researchers, the Amazon, contrary to popular belief, does not produce up to 20% of the Earth's 02 supply, but rather, around 6-9%. 

Per, Dr. Jonathan Foley, we need to be more concerned about what these fires will do to carbon levels, climate, water, biodiversity, and people, than we do about 02 levels.

National Geographic, goes into further detail about where the bulk of our oxygen really comes from. 

The Amazon is more like a giant air-conditioner that cools the planet.
- Michael Coe, Earth Systems Scientist

Having said all of that, it is obviously still very important to spread awareness of the fires, and changes need to be made. But they don't just need to be made in the Amazon, they need to be made a lot closer to home. The amount of garbage we produce on a daily basis is astronomical.

The main idea behind me purchasing these straws, is really just a way for me to start making changes in my own life. I used to throw out recyclable items, because I was just too lazy to rinse them. I've been purchasing things in glass jars, which I then reuse. (I realize it makes it more expensive, and also can be dangerous around children), but there are some stores that allow you to bring in your own containers, so if you're reusing a plastic container over and over, it's still preventing waste. There are several places that are now getting rid of plastic bags, which encourages people to use reusable and paper bags, restaurants are now putting leftovers in paper boxes. Dunkin Donuts serves their hot beverages in Styrofoam, but you can ask for them to put it into a paper cup. Now these all seem like small things, but the more people start to do this, the bigger the impact will be.

Just look at this 2018 FACT SHEET from Earth Day dot org.

You still might think that these straws are pointless and a waste of money, but to me, I think it's worth it.

I purchased my metal straw off of Amazon.


Company: Eco-Pals
Color: Unicorn
Price: $11.99

This straw does come in other colors:
Silver
Seafoam
Charcoal
Rose Gold
Price: $10.99

His & Hers - 2 Pack: Black and Rose Gold
Price: $15.99

ALL ARE PRIME ELIGIBLE

Pros: Long (9.25"), collapsible to adjust and store, portable case, brush cleaner (extends), and reduces pollution.


Cons: It takes on the temperature of the liquid, and can affect those with sensitive skin/teeth


They do sell straws with silicone tips. If you already have a metal straw, you can purchase the tips separately.


I purchased these biodegradable straws at TOPS  Markets for $0.99 


Pros: Light, bendable, long
Cons: Skinnier than regular straws
(Which is not really a bad thing, but some people may have an issue with it.)

This straw doesn't have a gritty feel to it, nor does it have a taste. I left it in this glass of water for about 45 minutes, as I'm sure some people would be worried that because it's biodegradable, it would disintegrate rapidly.

All in all, for  a little over $13.00 total, if it makes even the tiniest dent in my carbon footprint, why not? 

[NOTE: I am not receiving any form of compensation for this post]

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