Paper straws sound like a good choice when considering the environment, but there are times when it is best to choose the right tool for the job. Students complain about the fast breakdown of paper straws, and, often, physically disabled students have a hard time drinking with these fragile paper tubes. Plastic straws are flexible, light, reliable and durable enough to help an entire spectrum of people who live with disabilities drink every day. These handy devices may be the wrong choice when the goal is to reduce plastic consumption.

For those with limited mobility, bringing a straw from home may be possible, but washing a reusable straw presents a challenge. Many materials used to make these straws are potentially injurious, such as stainless steel, which can chip teeth. Just as wheelchair users are not expected to bring their own ramp, public accommodation should not be withdrawn in this instance because it may reduce plastic consumption by an imperceptible margin.

When it comes to waste, compared to the plastic packaging, cups, lids, and other materials used in manufacturing, plastic straws barely make a dent in Oswego State’s carbon footprint.

Consumer choice is still important, so if students want to use paper straws, they should be free to choose them. Plastic should still be an option, especially for those who need plastic straws. This way, waste can be reduced while still maintaining an accessible campus.

Other ways to reduce plastic are also viable without disposing of such an instrument for disabled students. Paper to-go cups should be available for cold drinks, and heat resistant cups have been implemented for coffee drinkers. Students have started to be encouraged to bring their own to-go beverage containers so long as they use them in a sanitary fashion.

Outside of the dining halls, functional water fountains with cold, clean water encourage students to use reusable water bottles rather than disposable ones. Water fountains are especially vital in the dorms. Oswego’s campus already has many fountains, so it would take only a suggestion for some environmentally conscious students to begin using reusable containers.

 In order to most positively affect the environment, the best thing students can do is vote for politicians who support environmentally friendly policies, like regulating manufacturer waste and green energy initiatives. This will have the most significant impact on the environment because it contributes to a more sustainable society overall rather than focusing on individual consumers. It also accounts for every student’s unique needs and preferences. If Oswego State strives to make a better world for tomorrow, it is imperative that no one of any ability be left behind in pursuit of that world.

Photo provided by Lisa Borberly via Flickr