A New Era for Federal Agencies: Trump’s Executive Order on Paper Straws

In a move that has sparked significant debate, President Donald Trump issued an executive order on February 10, 2025, reversing the Biden administration’s policy of using paper straws in federal agencies. The order mandates that federal agencies cease the procurement and use of paper straws, a decision that has been met with both criticism and support. The reversal from the Biden era, which aimed to phase out plastic straws in favor of paper alternatives, has reignited discussions about environmental sustainability, public health, and the role of government in setting standards for federal agencies.

The executive order claims that paper straws are nonfunctional, expensive, and potentially harmful to human health due to the presence of PFAS (polyfluoroalkyl substances). It also argues that paper straws often require users to utilize multiple straws, further increasing waste. However, experts and environmentalists have questioned the validity of these claims, pointing out that while paper straws may have their drawbacks, plastic straws pose significant environmental and health risks. The debate has now shifted to whether the rollback of paper straw policies is a necessary step or a symbolic gesture with broader implications for environmental policy.

The Debate Over Paper vs. Plastic Straws: A Closer Look

The debate over paper straws versus plastic straws is complex, with each side presenting valid arguments. On one hand, paper straws are more expensive to produce than plastic straws, and some contain PFAS, which have raised health concerns. However, plastic straws, made from petroleum, break down into microplastics that can enter the environment and even the human brain. The environmental impact of plastic straws is undeniable, as they take approximately 200 years to decompose and contribute significantly to ocean pollution.

Ben Leffel, a professor of public policy and sustainability expert at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, has criticized the executive order as a "symbolic bone thrown to [Trump’s] supporters." He argues that the order is based on a flawed premise of "ending forced use," which does not exist. Instead, it appears to be a politically motivated decision to appeal to Trump’s base by framing environmental policies as tyrannical. Leffel suggests that the rollback of paper straw policies could pave the way for broader reversals of environmental regulations, further enabling the use of single-use plastics and undermining efforts to reduce waste.

The Petrochemical Agenda and the Future of Sustainability

Critics of the executive order argue that it reflects a broader push to promote the petrochemical industry, which manufactures plastic products. Lauren Gropper, co-founder of the sustainability company Repurpose, asserts that Trump’s support for plastic straws is part of a larger agenda to promote the use of petrochemicals. "Trump’s pushing plastic because he’s pushing the petrochemical agenda. That’s what he wants," she said. Gropper emphasizes the need for better alternatives that are both functional and sustainable, such as compostable bioplastics made from plants rather than petroleum.

Repurpose produces straws made from PHA (polyhydroxyalkanoates), a nontoxic, marine-degradable material that feels and looks like plastic but is entirely biodegradable. Gropper argues that the focus should not be on choosing between paper and plastic but on developing innovative, sustainable solutions that work for everyone. "Compostable solutions, they’re not political," she said. "They’re just common sense no matter what side you’re on. No one wants more plastic in their body, their water, or their food."

Beyond the Executive Order: Consumer Demand and Innovation

The executive order may have significant implications for federal agencies, but it does not necessarily dictate the practices of private businesses or individual consumers. Many companies have already shifted toward sustainable alternatives due to consumer demand. Max Senechal, chief commercial officer at CJ Biomaterials, notes that major brands like Starbucks began phasing out plastic straws in response to consumer outreach rather than federal regulation. "The straw is a bit of a lightning rod right now for the new administration," he said. "But for us, you can turn that into a, ‘Hey, there are some technologies that have been developed over the past few years that are now available at commercial scale that can answer the call on straws.’"

CJ Biomaterials, which produces PHA resin, has recently partnered with the bakery chain Tous les Jours to distribute straws made from fermented sugar. The process of producing PHA has a carbon footprint up to 55% smaller than traditional polyethylene, as it does not require the extraction of gas or oil. Leah Ford, the global marketing, communications, and sustainability leader at CJ, explains that bioplastics and paper can complement each other in products like hot cups, where a bioplastic lining can enhance moisture resistance. The company is thoughtful about the role of both materials, recognizing that they each have their place in creating sustainable solutions.

The Role of Government and Individuals in Driving Change

While the executive order has drawn attention to the issue of single-use plastics, many experts argue that the real change must come from a combination of government policy, corporate innovation, and individual action. Sarah Paiji Yoo, co-founder and CEO of Blueland, a company that specializes in dissolvable, single-use tablets for sprays and hand soaps, believes that the focus should remain on reducing single-use plastics and supporting innovation. "I’m not saying that paper straws are the answer, but it’s unfortunate the message that’s being sent out there is plastic straws are great, let’s keep the plastic straw party going," she said.

Paiji Yoo suggests that governments can play a crucial role by providing incentives for businesses to eliminate single-use plastics. She argues that the costs of single-use plastics, such as recycling and landfilling, are often borne by the public rather than the businesses that use them. By offering incentives, governments can encourage companies to make decisions that are better for the planet and human health. Individuals also have the power to make a difference by voting with their dollars and choosing sustainable alternatives. As Gropper puts it, "We can find alternatives that work, like Repurpose. We can actually just not use plastic straws and do without them. We can reuse as much as possible." The collective impact of these choices can drive meaningful change, even in the face of federal policies that seem to undermine environmental progress.

Conclusion: A Call for Common Sense and Sustainability

The debate over paper straws and plastic straws is more than just a symbolic gesture; it reflects broader tensions in environmental policy and the role of government in shaping sustainability standards. While the executive order may have rolled back the use of paper straws in federal agencies, it has also brought attention to the need for innovative, sustainable solutions that go beyond the limitations of both paper and plastic. As companies like Repurpose, CJ Biomaterials, and Blueland continue to develop better alternatives, the focus must remain on reducing waste, supporting innovation, and promoting policies that prioritize the health of both people and the planet.

Ultimately, the issue of single-use plastics is not a partisan debate but a common-sense challenge that requires collaboration across industries, governments, and individuals. By working together to develop and adopt sustainable materials, we can create a future where the choice between paper and plastic straws is no longer a necessary one. The real victory will be when we have options that are better for everyone—options that are functional, affordable, and kind to the environment.