Ditch the Straw Day

Plastic straws, leading components of marine debris.\Photo courtesy of The Last Plastic Straw.

Every year, over a million seabirds, marine mammals and sea turtles are killed by eating or getting tangled in plastic. Over five trillion pieces of plastic litter our ocean. Microplastics outweigh plankton by six times in some areas of our ocean and are even found in the fish that we eat.

But we have the power to change this – and it can start with a straw (or, more to the point, without).  Oregon Shores strongly supports efforts at plastic reduction.  One opportunity to get engaged is coming right up.

On Wednesday, Aug. 29 (10 a.m.-6 p.m.), the Oregon Coast Aquarium (2820 S.E. Ferry Slip Rd, Newport) is hosting the Newport Chapter of Surfrider Foundation to support the #DITCHTHESTRAW initiative in Oregon. To encourage visitors to reduce their consumption of single-use plastics, such as straws, Aquarium staff will be giving out reusable metal straws to the first 200 groups that visit the Aquarium. Newport Surfrider with have representatives at the Aquarium to share information, hand-outs and partnering restaurant guides to guests.

Animal presentations and feedings will include messaging on the impacts of straws on marine wildlife as well as ways to reduce single-use plastic consumption. Reusable straws will be available for purchase in the gift shop. 

The Oregon Coast Aquarium recognizes the importance of leading by example, and so as of this year, they have completely eliminated plastic straws and water bottles in their merchandise or food and drink sales. Compostable straws are available by request.

Oregon is not alone in the #DITCHTHESTRAW effort. Seattle recently adopted a straw ban, while Portland city officials have plans for a straw ban this October. Other states and cities all over the United States also have banned or are planning to ban straws, including in New York, Hawaii, California, New Jersey and Florida. Businesses are also on board – Starbucks, Walt Disney World, multiple airline and hospitality companies, and McDonald’s have all announced plans to eliminate plastic straws in the near future.

Spread the word, and add “no straw” to your next drink order. The Ocean and its inhabitants will thank you!