January 3rd, 2025
Drinking straws have revolutionized the way people consume beverages. Thanks to Marvin Stone, the drinking straw was patented on January 3rd, 1888. Plastic straws of today evolved from paper straws. Before that beverages were sipped via a tube of natural rye grass. However, the grass could impact the flavor of the beverage. Stone wrapped a piece of paper around a pencil and glued the ends shut to make the first paper straw. Today many cities and towns are mandating that plastic straws be outlawed and paper used once more in their stead due to the negative environmental impact plastic straws can cause.
Source: www.plasticstoday.com/materials/here-s-why-today-sucks-it-s-national-drinking-straw-day
Encourage environmental stewardship by educating the public about the potential global implications of plastic straw refuse. Use Metro's environmental images available in the Creative Library.