Join the Strawless September Movement!

Have you heard of Strawless September? Let’s make it a big trend like Plastic-Free July! Heck, I think we should have every month dedicated to a conservation initiative, don’t you?

We all know that the health of our natural world is in jeopardy (why do you think we’re planting so many trees!), and it can sometimes feel overwhelming. But don’t fret! One of the great things about big problems is that there are SO MANY ways we can help out.

Whenever I feel hopeless thinking about global issues that seem out of my capacity to solve, I think of my very favourite quote by Margaret Mead:

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, concerned citizens can change the world. Indeed it is the only thing that ever has.”

Single-use plastics (aka disposable plastic) is one of the biggest issues contributing to climate change, warming oceans and the overall destruction of the natural environment and all its inhabitants. Did you know that 18 billion pounds of plastic waste flows into the oceans every year from coastal regions?

While straws aren’t the only thing in that pile, us silly humans use 500 million plastic straws each and every day! Of course some people need straws, and we’re not saying that everyone needs to quit using them all together, but that majority of uses are not necessary. There are plenty of alternative options like drinking straight from the cup or using a paper, glass or stainless steel straw.

Some striking facts about plastic use courtesy of National Geographic:

So this month, join the movement of the masses to say no to straws and know that you really are changing the world with this one seemingly small action.

Here are some ways you can help:

1. Specify to your server “no plastic straw” whenever you order a drink out
2. Ask bars and restaurants that you visit to stop serving plastic straws or switch to paper straws
3. Challenge your friends and family to also join the movement!
4. Use the hashtag #StopSucking in your social media posts
5. Grab a Tree Tribe Eco Bottle so you can drink without a straw!

Learn more at strawlessocean.org