Why make the switch to bamboo?
“8 million pieces of plastic pollution find their way into our oceans daily.” – Read More Here
Single-use straws are sucking the life from our oceans.
Auckland Council estimates 200 million plastic straws are consumed in New Zealand each year.
- The amount of plastic in the ocean is expected to double in the next 15 years, and by 2050 there could be more plastic than fish in the sea (by weight).
- Unfortunately, plastic straws are not biodegradable. Instead they break down into microplastics (<5mm) which are simply impossible to clean. The micro plastics in the ocean harm the sea-life, their food chains, and the natural habitats causing potentially irreversible damage.
- This isn’t just a one time thing – 8 million tonnes of plastic waste are ending up in the oceans each year, damaging ecosystems and wildlife, according to the UN Environment Programme.
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What are the advantages of using bamboo straws compared to other straw alternatives?
Bamboo straws are reusable, durable and long lasting.
Bamboo straws are more durable and long-lasting than paper and PLA (polylactic acid) straws, which makes them a more reusable option. Paper straws are designed for single-use, and they tend to soften and disintegrate quickly in liquids, making them unsuitable for reuse. PLA straws are made from a type of biodegradable plastic, which can break down over time, but they are also designed for single-use and can become brittle or warp after being used once.
In contrast, bamboo straws are strong, sturdy, and designed to last for multiple uses. They can be washed and reused several times before they need to be replaced, making them a more cost-effective and eco-friendly option in the long term. Additionally, bamboo is a natural and organic material, free from harmful chemicals or additives, which means that bamboo straws can be safely reused without worrying about exposure to toxins or contaminants.
Bamboo is water-resistant and won't get soggy like paper straws.
Bamboo straws are more water-resistant than paper straws. Paper straws are made from thin layers of paper, which can quickly absorb moisture and start to break down when they come into contact with liquids. This can lead to the paper straw becoming soggy, collapsing, or disintegrating, which can make them difficult to use and unappealing to consumers.
Comparatively, bamboo straws are made from solid, sturdy bamboo stalks that are less likely to absorb water or become damaged when they come into contact with liquids. The natural structure of bamboo also makes it more resistant to bending or collapsing under pressure, which means that bamboo straws are less likely to leak or break during use. Additionally, because bamboo is a natural and organic material, it does not contain any harmful chemicals or additives that can be released into liquids when exposed to water, which makes them a safer and healthier option for consumers.
Bamboo can naturally break down in your backyard.
Bamboo straws are backyard compostable*, which means that they can be broken down by natural processes in a backyard compost heap. As a natural and organic material, bamboo can decompose quickly and safely, without releasing any harmful chemicals or pollutants into the soil. This makes bamboo straws a great option for consumers who want to reduce their waste and have access to backyard composting facilities.
Glass and metal straws are not backyard compostable, as they are not biodegradable and do not break down naturally. While they can be reused many times and are highly durable, they must be disposed of in a recycling bin or taken to a specialised recycling facility for proper processing. This can be inconvenient for consumers who want to reduce their waste and may not have access to recycling facilities in their area.
Bamboo straws are organic, leaving almost no taste.
Bamboo straws are known to have a very mild, neutral taste that does not interfere with the flavour of the drink being consumed. As bamboo is a natural and organic material, it does not contain any chemicals or residues that could affect the taste of the drink.
Paper straws, on the other hand, can have a distinct taste that some people find unpleasant. This is because paper straws are often coated with a layer of wax or other materials to make them more durable and water-resistant. This coating can affect the taste of the drink and may leave a residual aftertaste.
Metal straws generally do not affect the taste of the drink being consumed, as they are made from inert materials such as stainless steel or titanium. However, some people may be able to detect a metallic taste when drinking from metal straws, particularly if they are not cleaned properly or are made from lower-quality materials.
Bamboo straws are ideal for boba tea.
Bamboo straws are available in boba shape because bamboo is a highly versatile material that can be shaped and carved into various sizes and shapes, including larger diameters that are suitable for boba drinks. The natural strength and flexibility of bamboo allow it to be crafted into a sturdy and durable boba straw that can withstand the weight of the larger tapioca pearls used in boba drinks. Additionally, the unique texture and appearance of bamboo make it an attractive and eco-friendly option for consumers who are looking for an alternative to plastic boba straws.
Paper straws, on the other hand, are typically made from thin layers of paper that are rolled and glued together to create a tube-like shape. While paper straws can be made in various lengths and widths, they may not be strong enough to support the weight of boba or other large drink toppings. Furthermore, the construction of paper straws may make it difficult to create a large enough diameter to accommodate boba pearls without compromising the structural integrity of the straw.
Bambu Gives Back
At Bambu, we recognise that water scarcity and limited access to clean drinking water are unfortunate realities endured by far too many people. That is why we pledge to donate 5% of our profits to Charity Water dedicated to supplying clean and safe water to those who need it most. We firmly believe that access to clean water is a human right, and by partnering with this charity, we can help improve the lives of communities in need. Every purchase of our straws supports sustainability and contributes directly to this vital cause. Together, we have the power to make a difference.
Got a question? No problem.
At Bambu, we are always happy to help. Whether you have a wholesale enquiry or if you’d simply like to find out more about our products or how you can work with us, please feel free to contact us. Our team will get back to you within 24 hours.