BETHLEHEM — BCSD will reduce plastic straw usage in its cafeterias from Monday, April 29 onwards.
BC Food Service Director Allissa Eiser said in a press release that students and staff will have to consume their beverages from their containers or bottles, without plastic straws, to be more green. This protocol, however, will not apply to students and staff who need to use a straw/cup for specific reasons, and a straw/cup would be available for use.
“We certainly believe that reducing our bulk use of plastic is good for the environment, but we do not want anyone who needs a straw to go without,” said Eiser.
She added that BC wants to help “protect the world’s oceans and wildlife” since plastic straws do not biodegrade and are often mistaken by animals for food. Straws are also hard to recycle since they are physically small although they do naturally break down under sunlight, a process known as photodegradation.
“On average, each straw is used for only 12 minutes but its damaging effects on the environment can last hundreds of years,” said Eiser. “A growing number of cities and businesses are doing away with straws. As a community of more than 5,000 students and staff, we can make a significant impact right here.”
For more information, email Eiser at [email protected] or call the Food Service Department at 518-439-8885.
