U.S. President Donald Trump has signed an executive order reversing a policy that sought to replace plastic straws with paper alternatives in federal government operations. The directive, which takes effect immediately, overturns a measure introduced by former President Joe Biden, who had labeled plastic pollution a “crisis” and sought to phase out single-use plastics, including straws, cutlery, and packaging.

Trump, who previously sold branded plastic straws during his 2020 re-election campaign, has long criticized paper straws. Speaking at the White House on Monday, he defended his decision, saying, “We’re going back to plastic straws. These things don’t work. I’ve used them many times, and they break, they explode. If something’s hot, they don’t last long—sometimes just seconds. It’s a ridiculous situation.”

Biden’s policy, announced in 2024, aimed to gradually end federal purchases of plastic straws and phase out all single-use plastics from food packaging, government operations, and events by 2027. The broader plan sought to eliminate single-use plastics entirely from federal operations by 2035. However, Trump’s new directive halts the transition, instructing government agencies to stop purchasing paper straws and laying the groundwork for a nationwide phaseout of paper alternatives.

Trump has frequently positioned himself against environmental policies that he perceives as excessive. During his 2020 campaign, his team sold packs of “Trump” branded plastic straws for $15 each, promoting them as a superior alternative to what he called “liberal” paper straws. The campaign reportedly raised nearly $500,000 from straw sales in the first few weeks alone, underscoring the political divide over environmental regulations.

The debate over plastic versus paper straws remains contentious. Some estimates suggest Americans use around 500 million disposable drinking straws daily, though that figure is widely disputed, with some research indicating the true number may be closer to half that. In response to growing concerns about plastic waste, several U.S. cities and states, including Seattle, Washington; California; Oregon; and New Jersey, have implemented restrictions, requiring businesses to limit plastic straw use or provide them only upon request.

Globally, plastic pollution is a growing environmental challenge. According to the United Nations Environment Program, 460 million metric tonnes of plastic are produced annually, contributing to ocean waste and microplastics that pose risks to human health. While paper straws are often promoted as a more sustainable alternative, studies have revealed they may contain high levels of polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as "forever chemicals." PFAS persist in the environment for decades, contaminate water supplies, and have been linked to various health issues.

Trump’s decision to reinstate plastic straws is expected to reignite debates over sustainability, consumer convenience, and regulatory oversight, highlighting the ongoing political and environmental divide in the U.S.