Nottingham Trent Students’ Union has made the move to biodegradable straws, following a national campaign by the NUS to encourage all student unions to do so.
The environmental damage caused by single-use plastic straws can be deadly to animals as it can be caught in their throats, and they can also take up to 200 years to biodegrade.
The Student Union are therefore delighted to join the many institutions across the UK doing the same.
Next time you fancy a smoothie, milkshake or any other drink that requires a straw, you will have to ask at the bar for one, as they have now been taken off display.
It’s hoped that this will reduce the amount of straws used overall, as well as improving the environmental impact of the ones we do use at the SU.
Steve Potter, Food and Beverage Manager, said: “We’re very conscious of our impact on the environment so it was important for us to find a solution to this growing problem.
“We would really appreciate the support of our students through the transition.
“By making a conscious effort to cut down on using straws where possible, you’ll be helping us to make a huge difference.”
By Eve Smallman