Newark council balks at straw ban, opts for more gradual approach

A recent study estimated 8 million tonnes of plastic makes its way to the oceans every year and that 90 % of all river-borne plastic pollution comes from just 10 rivers: eight in Asia, two in Africa. By one estimate the Yangtze River alone spews 1.5 million tonnes of plastic each year. Perhaps more real improvement might be done if groups went to protest at the UN or the Chinese embassy..

Here is a history lesson. In the beginning, we had paper straws. The 'politically correct' thought that we were destroying too many trees in order to make paper straws, so we started making plastic straws. The 'politically correct' now say that plastic straws are filling up our landfills and destroying our environment. We do not need to get rid of plastic straws, we need to stop listening and placating the "politically correct". This is the least of all the problems that we need to solve.

How can Council be so stupid not to ban straws? Everyone survives without them at Home. Think Environment.

I find it scary that the councilwoman admits that the goal is a ban. And, that they use such left wing wacky cities as something to aspire to. The government has no right to tell us not to use plastic straws or plastic bags. That they follow the advice of children is equally bad. Paper straws fall apart. It is near impossible to drink a milkshake or a bubble tea with them. Please stop with these ridiculous and encroaching banning projects and do your job - find ways to decrease the size and scope of government.

Wallace, like all good liberals, wants "banning" as the solution to every behavioral, social problem. Why are plastic straws not able to be recycled? I'm glad the council has the time to consider such issues when the city is being overrun by developers and other do-good, special interest zealots. Might they instead look at changing the decades old and obsolete zoning laws that are ruining the town?

---Coleman will devise suggestions for how to communicate the policy---- New waiter/waitress training: HELLO, WOULD YOU LIKE A STRAW WITH THAT DRINK !!??

I happen to be one of those folks who relies on a straw. I have Dupuytrens in both hands, and handling beverage containers, especially plastic or glass ones without handles is a challenge. I actually have a stainless steel one at home, but it's inconvenient (and unhealthy) to bring with me when we go out. I realize it was mentioned briefly in the article, but I hope the lawmakers with healthy hands don't turn a blind eye to this issue. Thank you.