It's The Last Straw For Clearwater: Effort Targets Plastic Straws

CLEARWATER, Fla. - With the revelation that plastic straws are responsible for the deaths of thousands of marine animals and sea birds, the Clearwater Solid Waste/Recycling Department is challenging restaurants, bars, cafes and street vendors to find an alternative to plastic straws.

cFrom June 1 to Aug. 31, the solid waste department is issuing a voluntary Strawless Summer Challenge to reduce the use of plastic straws in the city.

"Not only is plastic waste unsightly for a relaxing stroll on the beach, but the Environmental Protection Agency has found plastic to be responsible for the death of roughly 100,000 marine mammals and 1 million sea birds every year, and plastic straws are a large contributor to this problem," said Clearwater recycling specialist Sheridan Boyle. "Americans use roughly 500 million plastic straws every single day. These plastic straws use a large amount of energy to make, are not recyclable and do not biodegrade."

For a three-month period from June 1 to Aug. 31, participating businesses can participate by abstaining from giving plastic straws out unless requested by a customer. Participating businesses will be spotlighted on the department's website and in city social media posts.

Businesses that successfully complete the Strawless Summer Challenge will receive a certificate of achievement and a photo spotlight on the department's website for one year.

To receive more information or to enroll in the challenge, call Boyle at (727) 562-4933 or email her at sheridan.boyle@myclearwater.com.

Image via Florida Department of Environmental Regulation

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