We automatically reach for a plastic straw when we retrieve our cup of coffee in the morning and we automatically toss that cup into the trash when we’re done with it. But did you know that it takes up to 200 years for a plastic straw to decompose? That’s why the #PledgeAgainstPlasticStraws 2018 has risen and sophomore Peyton Millard plans on bringing it to our UNL campus.
The #PledgeAgainstPlasticStraws 2018 campaign is a worldwide competition between any college campus that registers online. The campus that gathers enough pledges can win up to 100 custom etched reusable straws from a company named Simply Straws. Also, if you take the pledge, you will be delivered a reusable glass straw.
Millard stumbled across this campaign while scrolling through social media one day and knew it was something she had to get involved with. “I thought it would be amazing to bring this to campus where we could have such a big impact in one small area,” said Millard. Interest can spark by turning just a few heads and educating people on the topic, which is where Millard's role comes into play.
Many people don’t realize the impact of using one single plastic straw. Bringing this campaign to UNL would raise awareness around the negative impact of plastic straws and the harm that it causes to our environment and to animal habitats. “Making even 20 more people join the movement could greatly impact their friends and family and give them that influence themselves,” Millard said.
The challenge only lasts a month so continuing to talk about reusable straws and their negative impact after the challenge is over would spread the word on this important issue and would get people more involved. “I know there is interest in it and have had many people reach out to help,” said Millard. “I am eager to see what the months ahead bring as more education is supplied.”
To join the campaign and to make your pledge, visit www.simplystraws.com/UNLincoln and share your reason to #PledgeAgainstPlasticStraws!