*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.
Inflation is outrunning growth, squeezing consumers and raising fear of a summer slowdown as high rates and sticky prices test spending and markets today now.
TIME's editorial director Emma Barker unpacks the 2026 100 Most Influential Companies list, spotlighting trends, AI impact, surprises, and leadership shifts.
From dire wolves to new species targets, scientists at Colossal Biosciences are using gene editing to revive extinction and reshape biodiversity as we know it.
R.J. Hottovy, Head of Analytical Research at Placer.ai, breaks down restaurant trends, pricing power, and which chains are winning this earnings season.
William Shatner and LifeWave CEO David Schmidt share lessons from his “world’s oldest intern” experience and offer advice for young professionals starting out.
