In the rush to 'save' the planet from pollution by single use plastics, drinking straws have become bete noires (being regarded as trivial items that could easily be replaced by paper, bamboo or glass). Dame Tammi Grey-Thompson has, however, pointed out that bendable plastic disposable straws are absolutely necessary to enable some disabled folk to drink cleanly and effectively (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/uk-wales-43491732/plastic-straws-only-way-some-disabled-people-can-drink). Removing plastic straws from restaurants and other locations might well make life more difficult for such people. It just goes to show that curtailing single use plastics is not going to be an easy undertaking (in spite of pontificating politicians) and requires really wide consultation. Balance is also needed when reducing the plastic wrapping of foods without increasing food waste (a very considerable problem in its own right).
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