It's time to suck it up – we've got a huge plastic straw problem, and it's wreaking havoc on our planet. It is estimated that the U.K. alone uses 8.5-billion straws per year, according to the Marine Conservation Society. Plastic straws are also one of the top 10 items found in beach cleanups.
U.K environmental secretary Michael Gove has hinted that a plastic straw ban might be introduced in Britain after it leaves the E.U., and already a handful of chain pubs and restaurants in the U.K. have banned plastic straws, including Wetherspoons and Asian food chain Wagamama.
While many might think the answer is simply ditching straws altogether, there are many who prefer them (lipstick wearers, we've got you) – or for whom they are a necessity, such as HuffPost UK blogger Michaela Hollywood, who has muscular dystrophy and relies on them to eat and drink. With that in mind, we've rounded up the best alternatives to plastic straws for you to slurp on.
Paper straws
The go-to alternative to plastic straws would be the humble paper straw. Often biodegradable (check the label), they offer a twee alternative to landfill. You can get them in a variety of designs, including the classic red-and-white striped. Try pairing them with a glass milk bottle or jam jar for the ultimate retro look.
Warning: these straws can get a little soggy, so drink up fast.
Check out a range of designs from Pretty Little Party Shop.
Bamboo
Whether you're hosting a tiki party or just fancy being super on-trend with the eco crowd, why not try bamboo straws? These straws are rising in popularity and can be used with hot or cold drinks.
Visit Eco Straws for bamboo straws sourced from sustainable, panda-free forests in China.
Metal
Stainless steel, aluminium and titanium are used to make drinking straws, offering a robust alternative that can be used again and again. What's more: they look rather cool, if you ask us.
Get yours on Amazon.