Plastic straws may be small and slim, but they can cause catastrophic damage to our environment and wildlife as they don’t decompose and are hard to be recycled. So, metal straws are the best solution thus far, and a cafe in Penang is already using them!
While the state government of Penang is considering banning the usage of single-use plastic straws, Matcho Cafe in George Town is already spearheading into this eco-friendly movement.
Source: Facebook
Source: Kwong Wah
In an interview with Kwong Wah, the co-owner said that the cafe has been using metal straws since 20 June.
“When we heard that the state government is preparing to ban plastic straws, we knew it was the right decision to start using stainless steel metal straws.
“At first I was hesitant to use it, but when I saw that each straw comes with a designated brush to thoroughly clean the inner part, I began to accept it,” the co-owner said.
Price wise, 100 pieces of plastic straws are available at only RM2.50, while 30 pieces of stainless steel straws cost the cafe RM180. No doubt that plastic straws are more economical, but metal straws are more worth it in the long run. Say no to waste!
It was understood that the cafe is currently finishing up the last batch of plastic straws in their inventory. However, customers can still opt for metal straws if that’s what they prefer!
“Even though we’ve only started using metal straws for a few days, we didn’t receive any complaint regarding hygiene problems from customers so far. We believe they can get accustomed to these changes,” she added.
Source: Kwong Wah
This is certainly an inspiring move by the cafe to help save mother nature as they’ll be reducing non-degradable waste. Let’s hope more cafes and eateries would follow their footsteps soon!
If you’re ever in Penang, why not drop by to the cozy ambience of this cafe and their fine selection of food and beverages!
Address: 99B, Lebuh Noordin, George Town, Malaysia
Operating hours: 10.30am to 10.30pm daily, except Tuesday
Also read: German Tourist Picks Up Bags of Trash in M’sia While Locals Just Stood & Watched
