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There are many ways we can make our environment more sustainable without prioritising those that can negatively affect disabled people, says Prudence. The bendy single use plastic straw remains the yardstick as a great example of universal design. It’s extraordinarily useful for the very young, the very old, and those who have difficulties with swallowing. Initial sales of the 'Flex-Straw', invented by Joseph B Friedman in the 1930s, was mostly to hospitals. Nurses realised that bendy straws could help bedridden patients and were much safer than the glass tubes which were in common use at the time.
Making the best choice
Unfortunately there is not yet a viable alternative to plastic straws that is accessible to all disabled people, says Prudence. “What is more, reusable straws need to be frequently and thoroughly washed and sterilised, a process which in itself isn’t accessible to many disabled people.” The DPA states that some alternative straws do work for some disabled people – but these are individual solutions that need to be explored by individuals rather than a one size fits all approach. Finding an alternative is largely a case of trial and error after considering the various qualities of each alternative.
Types of straws Silicon These are very flexible, and come in different thicknesses for different liquids. Although they’re hard to recycle, and can be difficult to sanitise, they are a far more sustainable option than plastic. Metal Possibly the most environmentally sustainable product, but arguably the most unsatisfying to actually use. They are solid and durable, but lack flexibility and have been known to cause serious injury and even death. Paper The most environmentally friendly single use option. These are nonflexible, and likely to get soggy quickly. Pasta To be avoided if you have a gluten or wheat allergy. It’s a sturdy product, however, and you can boil
it and eat it afterwards - in theory at least! Bamboo Straws Very eco-friendly and biodegradable. However splinters may appear after 10 – 20 uses, and they are difficult to clean. Reusable Plastic Straws These are found coupled with a durable cup and lid, which is handy for reducing spillage. Biodegradable Plastic Straws Options include PLA (polylactic acid) and chitosan straws. Apparently these are just like using a plastic straw, which is a huge bonus. However, PLA only degrades quickly in a hot composter, so you don’t want them ending up in the ocean. Chitosan is made from crushed shells. Early reports suggest that these are safe for those with a seafood allergy, but apply caution in any case.
Hospitality recommendations
“An inclusive restaurant or café supplies plastic straws,” says Prudence. “A good option for a restaurant that values both environmental sustainability and social justice is to provide a stock of both plastic straws and an alternative such as paper, in a place easily accessed by customers." "This gives customers choice, and doesn’t stigmatise those who need to use a plastic straw.”
THE BENDY SINGLE USE PLASTIC STRAW IS A GREAT EXAMPLE OF UNIVERSAL DESIGN - IT'S USEFUL FOR THE VERY YOUNG, THE VERY OLD, AND THOSE WHO HAVE SWALLOWING DIFFICULTIES. www.wecare.kiwi
How to clean reusable straws What You’ll Need Hot water Dish soap A pipe cleaner or straw brush Baking soda (optional)
Rinse If you can, do this as soon as you’re done using your straw, so stuff doesn’t harden in there. Cap the bottom end with your finger and place the top end under hot running water from the faucet. Then release and let the water run through. Do this a few times. If you see something chunky in there (like bits from a smoothie), plug the bottom hole, fill the straw with water and blow through the opening at the top.
Scrub Add dish soap to your straw brush, then push it into your straw and scrub vigorously. Repeat from both ends of the straw. Don’t forget to clean the openings and the outside of the straw. Add baking soda If you still suspect or see debris, add the scrubbing power of baking soda. Sprinkle some onto your bottle brush, then scrub from the top and bottom. Rinse again When you’re done cleaning, run the straw under hot water to flush out any remaining soap or baking soda. You’re done!
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