"Ending Procurement and Forced Use of Paper Straws." (02,10,25)

What is this?

Trump just signed an executive order bringing back plastic straws after years of businesses switching to paper ones, which started when research showed Americans were tossing hundreds of millions daily and went viral with that video of a sea turtle getting a straw pulled from its nose. This is probably more symbolic than practical since most companies switched for their image, not because they were forced to, but it signals Trump's approach to rolling back environmental rules. It's basically culture war politics where straws become about government overreach versus pollution, and whether you prefer avoiding soggy paper straws or saving sea turtles depends on your priorities.

What is in it for us?

Young adults who were annoyed by soggy paper straws that fall apart in drinks will get their sturdy plastic straws back, making their coffee runs and fast-food experiences less frustrating. Businesses might save money on more expensive paper alternatives, potentially keeping food costs down. Some see this as the government staying out of minor personal choices, letting people and businesses decide for themselves.

More plastic waste will head to oceans and landfills, which young adults will inherit as they deal with climate change and pollution for decades to come. This could signal that environmental concerns will take a backseat to convenience, making it harder to tackle bigger pollution problems. Young people who care about sustainability might feel like their generation's environmental priorities are being dismissed, and it sets a precedent that small environmental protections can be easily reversed, making future conservation efforts more difficult