Are PLA Straws Compostable And Better Than Plastic Straws?

Land pollution is one of the main issues every country faces caused by plastic pollution or plastic, such as bags, plastic cups, and plastic straws. Moreover, it is also predicted that by the end of 2050, there will be more plastic in the ocean than fishes.

Many countries are working to prevent the use of plastic to minimize land pollution. Even many restaurants, the hospital has brand the use of plastic. Many brands find other alternatives for plastic straws like PLA straws, but the question that arises is, are PLA straw compostable? This article will emphasize some truth about PLA straws.

What are PLA straws?

PLA straws are biodegradable straws made from plants material like cornstarch and sugarcane. It is also considered a better alternative and environmentally friendly than plastic-based straws made from petroleum-based plastic.

However, there are some facts about PLA straws to be aware of before their use.

Facts about PLA straws

  1. PLA straws have some specific disposal conditions, such as the industries need to have a temperature above 140 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 sequential days to decompose these straws. Moreover, proper recycling facilities should be required to break down these straws.
  2. Sometimes PLA straws show the properties of plastic straws, as some studies show that it cannot be composted at homes or land hill areas. If fishes or any marine wildlife consumes them are ultimately killing them, if you throw them on roads, then there is no difference between PLA straws and plastic straws.
  3. PLA straws need to be sorted in an industrial composting collecting bin. Otherwise, it will have no difference between plastic straws and them. People think they are eco-friendly, which is true, but only if used and disposed of correctly.
  4. PLA straws are cumbersome to workers, which means this plastic cannot be mixed and decomposed with other plastic as they have a different melting point, which means they cannot be recycled without curbside recycling.

Hence, it shows that people need to get educated about the disposing of PLA to cover the community's gap.