Paper straws could be doing more harm than good, study suggests

A South Korean assessment commissioned by the Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment found that paper straws scored 6.33 times higher than plastic straws in an estimate of cancer-related harm from pollution generated during production and disposal. The study compared paper, plastic, biodegradable plastic, and bio-PE straws across 16 environmental impacts, with conventional plastic performing best in 10 categories. Researchers recommended stores provide disposable straws only upon request, a sentiment echoed by criticism of paper straw restrictions due to a lack of proven environmental benefits.

• A South Korean study suggests paper straws may carry a greater pollution-related health burden than plastic straws.
• Paper straws scored 6.33 times higher than conventional plastic straws in an estimate of cancer-related harm from pollution.
• The assessment compared paper, plastic, biodegradable plastic, and bio-PE straws.
• Conventional plastic straws performed best in 10 of 16 environmental categories assessed.
• Researchers recommended that stores provide disposable straws only upon request.
• Previous reports have indicated concerns about PFAS chemicals in paper straws.