*By Justin Chermol*
Starbucks announced plans on Monday to elimate the use of plastic straws by 2020, making it the largest company yet to undertake the green initiative.
The coffee chain will transition to new lids which feature a raised lip to drink from, a design already being used for some of the company’s cold brew drinks. The new lids will begin rolling out this fall in Canada as well as in Starbucks’ home city of Seattle. For those customers who insist on straws, the company will offer eco-friendly versions made of paper or compostable plastic.
Starbucks stated this policy will cut the number of plastic straws used by one billion per year -- the proliferation of them has contributed to devastating ocean pollution and threatens marine life.
Local governments across the United States initially spearheaded the plastic-strawless movement. Just last week Seattle banned both plastic straws and utensils. Some of America’s largest cities like New York and San Francisco have proposed plans to remove plastic straws as well.
Shubha Dasgupta, CEO of Pineapple Financial, discusses incorporating artificial intelligence with its newly announced ‘Maui’ tool, plus plans for expansion.
Chair of Penn Engineering’s Department of Computer and Information Science Zachary Ives shares how the department is building its artificial intelligence degree program.
Frances Stacy, Optimal Capital Director of Strategy, breaks down why the latest data indicates the economy may be struggling more than expected, plus some sectors she’s watching.
The Federal Trade Commission is suing to block a proposed merger between the two grocery stores. The FTC says the $24.6 billion deal would eliminate competition and lead to higher prices for millions of Americans.
Terecircuits CEO Wayne Rickard explains some of the other companies set to benefit from the Nvidia-led chipmaking rally, including manufacturing and toolmaking companies.
Axios reporter Erin Doherty breaks down the results from the South Carolina primary as former President Trump gets closer to winning the GOP nomination.
Jay Woods of Freedom Capital Markets shares thoughts on how the latest inflation report will impact the market, and why he expects a ‘cascade’ of IPOs if Reddit’s public debut goes well.
