"...sometimes, the solution to one thing becomes the problem...[when plastic straws replaced paper ones]...No one planned for the effect these plastics would have on the environment."

"So, what is the solution?
The first step is realizing that everything we do matters, and that changing our habits can make a huge difference."

Starting with a history of the straw, including an original patent, Romito brings the reader neatly from ancient Sumeria to modern times via the straw, which has been made of reeds, metal, paper, actual straw, and most recently (post-WWII), plastic. Single-use plastic has a terrible effect on the oceans and ocean life, and microplastics are forever; straws, being mostly unnecessary (they make an exception for those in hospitals who may require bendy straws for medical reasons), are an easy thing to give up, and readers are encouraged to make the change and spread the word.

Back matter: author's note on single-use plastics, sources.
strawfree.org
thelastplasticstraw.org
ecocycle.org/bestrawfree ( )