DC May Ban Plastic Straws: Report

WASHINGTON, DC -- The District could become the latest city to ban plastic straws over concerns about their environmental impact, according to a report.

Multiple U.S. cities have banned plastic straws, including Seattle, which just had a ban take effect on July 1. WTOP reports that now D.C. Councilmember Jack Evans is introducing a bill that would outlaw the straws -- as well as plastic stirrers -- at businesses throughout D.C.

“I remember when I was growing up, I used to have these paper straws that are much better for the environment, and probably will make a big comeback now,” Evans said according to WTOP.

Companies have joined in the movement to eliminate plastic straws. Starbucks announced it would stop using them in 28,000 stores by 2020, opting for either a strawless lid or a paper straw instead. IKEA also announced it would remove single-use plastic from in-store restaurants by 2020.

Hyatt Hotels, Royal Caribbean, American Airlines, and Alaska Airlines have also made pledges to abandon plastic straws and stirrers.

(Photo Illustration by Joe Raedle/Getty Images)