A local ban on plastic straws, stir sticks, and utensils will go into effect in York, Maine on May 18. This ban was passed in May 2024 by voters in the town after collaboration between members of the York High School Eco Club, town officials, and others to develop the ordinance.
In contrast, President Donald Trump signed an executive order earlier this year targeting paper straws. The order requires federal agencies to stop purchasing paper straws and eliminate their use within their buildings. Trump criticized paper straws, calling for a return to plastic ones.
The ban in York applies to various establishments such as stores, restaurants, coffee shops, caterers, and town events, while health care facilities are exempt. Violations of the ban will result in fines, with the town code officer responsible for enforcement.
During discussions leading up to the ban, some supported the move while others had concerns. Business owners like Caitlynn Ramsey of the Sun and Surf Restaurant collaborated with students to develop the ban. However, others, such as Patti Krukoff-Bernier of Nick’s Beachside Grille, raised concerns about the cost increase of alternatives to plastic utensils.
Despite the higher costs associated with non-plastic items, businesses like Village Scoop Ice Cream have transitioned to compostable options to comply with the ban. Students involved in crafting the ordinance recognized the financial implications but believed the environmental benefits outweighed the costs.
Overall, the ban on plastic straws in York reflects a broader trend towards sustainability, while the federal government’s stance under President Trump seeks to reverse such regulations.
Impact of Executive Order on York Ordinance
President Trump’s recent executive order aims to restore what he calls “common sense” in environmental policies. The order challenges the use of paper straws, which are often individually wrapped in plastic, contradicting their purported environmental benefits. According to the administration, bans on plastic straws across various cities and states are a result of yielding to pressure from activists prioritizing symbolism over scientific evidence. The White House asserts that paper straws are not as eco-friendly as claimed, being more expensive and potentially carrying health risks due to chemical content.
The order argues against the widespread push for paper straws, labeling them as non-functional alternatives forced upon Americans. Despite this stance, the executive order does not nullify existing local or state laws prohibiting plastic straws.
In response to this federal initiative, York, a town that implemented a ban on plastics last year, remains unwavering in its commitment to environmental protection. Victoria Simon, chair of the town Recycling Committee, affirms that efforts to uphold the ordinance and pursue additional eco-friendly measures concerning plastics will persist. Simon, who advises the high school’s Eco Club, emphasizes the community’s dedication to reducing single-use plastics independently of federal directives.
The town’s proactive stance on environmental issues, particularly the recent ban on plastic straws and utensils, reflects its unwavering commitment to sustainability.
