With the media continuing to focus on plastic and the environment, 4 Aces (Essex, U.K.) feels that, as a result, consumers are far more savvy about the unnecessary use of straws and are increasingly unwilling to contribute to the damage that’s being caused, to sealife in particular.

The packaging specialist’s new biodegradable straws now on the market (Sept. 2018) are made from high grade material and have been produced to maintain a stable structure that will last much longer than other alternatives. The white paper straws come in 8mm bore and are suitable for smoothies and shakes. There is also a black 6 mm version that suits all other uses.

"With smaller children and anyone likely to struggle, going without a straw isn’t always an option. This eco-friendly alternative to the plastic straw gives consumers the opportunity to make the right choice and it impacts positively on the sustainability agenda of the seller, whether that’s a pub, a café or any other retail outlet," explained Aces Sales Director David Blake.

"We’re expecting to generate a healthy level of interest as we are enjoying high sales across all of our biodegradable products following the launch of our PLANET range earlier this year."

4 Aces stocks a selection of 7oz, 8oz, 12oz and 16oz, compostable, PLA hot cups and a full range of paper water cones and PLA cold cups, which carry the internationally recognised seedling logo. These products comply to EU certification for compostable packaging, which means that they will disintegrate in the correct industrial facilities for disposal within 12 weeks.