Eco-Friendly Paper Straws: A Small Change with Big Brand Impact

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Today, more than ever, customers are paying attention to the way businesses operate. From packaging to energy use, every decision reflects on your values.

And when it comes to sustainability, even small changes can make a big impression.

One of the simplest and most visible of those changes? The simple drinking straw.

Plastic Straws Are Out. What Comes Next?

Plastic straws have become a symbol of unnecessary waste. Lightweight and convenient, they’ve also been found in oceans, rivers, and landfills around the world. Many don’t get recycled, and most take hundreds of years to break down, but may still cause microplastic pollution.

That’s why governments have stepped in. In the UK and across the EU, plastic straw bans have already come into effect in most industries — with more restrictions to come.

For businesses, this creates an opportunity to adopt better solutions. Paper straws are one of the most straightforward alternatives. But like any product, quality varies widely.

Not All Paper Straws Are Equal

We’ve all seen it — a paper straw that turns soggy in minutes, folds in half while sipping a smoothie, or starts to fall apart before the drink is finished.

Poor quality paper straws can leave a bad taste — literally and figuratively. That’s why it’s important to choose straws that are built to last (at least a few hours), hold their shape, and stay safe and pleasant to use.

If you’re going to make a switch, it’s worth doing it properly. Your customers will notice.

What to Look for in a Good Paper Straw

An effective, reliable paper straw should meet the following standards:

Made from responsibly sourced paper — look for FSC® or PEFC™ certification
Printed with food-safe ink and glue — no odours, no strange tastes
100% compostable and biodegradable — breaks down naturally after use
Strong enough to last — even in thick or acidic drinks
Produced under strict safety and hygiene standards — like BRC or FDA certification
Available in multiple sizes and finishes — to suit your menu and your brand

These aren’t just nice-to-haves — they’re what customers expect from a modern, sustainability-minded business.

Why More Businesses Are Making the Switch

From cafés and food trucks to hotels and festivals, switching to eco-friendly paper straws has become a visible sign that a business is thinking ahead. It’s a way to meet regulations, reduce plastic waste, and show your customers that you care about your impact.

And while straws might be small, they play a part in the overall customer experience. A good drink deserves a good straw — one that won’t fall apart halfway through.

When you offer quality disposables, you reinforce trust. That’s good for your brand and better for the planet.

Branded Straws: A Small Detail That Builds Your Identity

One thing many businesses love about paper straws is how versatile they are. You can go beyond plain white or brown. With custom branding, you can match your straws to your identity — whether that’s your logo, colours, or even seasonal designs.

Printed paper straws add a thoughtful, high-end touch to drinks, especially in hospitality, events, and takeaway settings. It’s a simple way to stand out without adding plastic or waste.

Your customers share photos, stories, and experiences. Why not make sure your brand is part of the picture?

Sourcing From the Right Supplier

Choosing the right supplier ensures your straws are safe, functional, and genuinely eco-friendly.

Ensure that they offer what Hello Straw, for example, offers:

Certified paper straws made from sustainable sources
Production in a BRC-certified facility
Custom designs in various lengths, colours, and diameters
Compostable and durable straws that hold up in all types of drinks
Responsive support and flexible wholesale solutions

They control their own production, which means consistent quality, fewer delays, and a product you can rely on.

Final Thoughts: It All Adds Up

Sustainability isn’t about doing everything at once. It’s about making smarter choices, step by step.

Switching to paper straws won’t change the world overnight. But it’s a signal to your customers, your staff, and your industry that you’re committed to doing things better.

And when that straw looks great, lasts the length of a drink, and leaves no waste behind? Even better.