Plastic straws are one of the most pervasive forms of plastic waste, and incredibly destructive to our oceans and environment. So why are stores like Starbucks giving out straws which get used once, only to end up lodged in a sea turtle’s throat?

We live in South Florida and for a recent school project, Davis (13-years-old) and I (Davis’ mom) volunteered on a beach clean up where we saw just how devastating plastic waste is on our shores. In the last 25 years, over 6 million straws and stirrers were removed from beaches during annual cleaning events.

We’re asking Starbucks to lead the way and transition away from single use plastic straws.

Starbucks has built its reputation as a company concerned about its environmental impact. They recently invested $10 million in designing a more environmentally-friendly cup, and now straws seem like the next logical step. As one of the largest fast-food companies worldwide, it could lead the industry in protecting our oceans.

If it's expense that's keeping the company from doing what's right, then we’re sure their customers would be happy to pay an extra 5 cents to ensure that their plastic straw doesn't end up lodged in a sea turtle's throat.

During our beach clean up, it seemed like the sandy trash was endless. We need to take better care of our planet to leave a home for future generations – and we’re asking for Starbucks’ help.