South Korean study finds paper straws pose higher environmental and cancer risks

A study commissioned by South Korea’s Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment has found that paper straws may cause more environmental harm and pose greater cancer risks than conventional plastic straws when assessed across their full life cycle.

Comparing four types—conventional plastic, paper, biodegradable plastic, and bio-based polyethylene—the research evaluated 16 environmental impact categories. Conventional plastic straws outperformed the alternatives in 10 of the 16 categories, including climate change, human toxicity, and particulate matter pollution.

Key findings include: • Paper straws: 6.33 times the carcinogenic impact and roughly twice the acidification impact of standard plastic. • Biodegradable plastic: 3.34 times the carcinogenic impact and 1.98 times the acidification impact. • Bio-based polyethylene: 16 times the carcinogenic impact and six times the acidification impact.

The study also challenged the recyclability of paper straws, noting that their small size often causes them to slip through sorting machinery at recycling facilities. Additionally, water-resistant coatings and industrial glues used in their production make them difficult to break down.