*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.
British cinema chain Cineworld is hoping to exit bankruptcy protection in July.
MoviePass launched its points-based subscription service ahead of the busy summer season.
OpenAI may pull its services in Europe due to new regulations.
Delaware state officials are hoping artificial intelligence can help evacuate beaches when floods hit.
WeWork said its chief executive and chief financial officer both plan to step down.
Shares of e-commerce giant Alibaba fell as China braces for a new wave of Covid.
Dish Network is in talks to sell wireless phone plans through Amazon, according to The Wall Street Journal.
Best Buy topped profit estimates in its latest quarter but also said consumers are spending more cautiously.
Nvidia topped earnings expectations, citing surging demand amid heightened interest in artificial intelligence.
Lawmakers in several states are embracing legislation to let children work in more hazardous occupations, longer hours on school nights and in expanded roles including serving alcohol in bars and restaurants as young as 14.
