Starbucks Korea Launches Bio-Based Biodegradable Plastic Straws Nationwide
On November 4th, Starbucks Korea announced the rollout of plant-based plastic straws in all its stores nationwide, excluding Jeju Island. The company stated, "Following a pilot program, we decided to extend this service to all stores nationwide based on customer feedback. We will be using this system alongside existing paper straws to enrich customer choices."
This move marks the nationwide rollout of the "plant-based plastic straw" program. The program has been piloted in approximately 200 stores in Seoul and Gyeonggi Province since June. Consumers can choose between paper or plastic straws when ordering beverages. Jeju Island was excluded from this rollout due to its provincial regulations requiring it to become a "plastic-free island" by 2040.
The newly launched green plastic straws are made from biodegradable plastic (Bio-PBS), derived from sugarcane. Starbucks explained, "Compared to existing plastics, they reduce carbon emissions and significantly reduce microplastic generation." They added, "Our choice took into account both environmental sustainability and customer satisfaction." They also stated, "As part of our efforts to address climate change, we plan to expand the use of environmentally friendly materials."
In 2018, Starbucks became the first South Korean food and beverage company to fully adopt paper straws through its "One Planet Pledge" campaign. However, consumer complaints persisted, such as the paper straws becoming brittle after contact with beverages and the coating on some products making them difficult to recycle. Furthermore, there were concerns that paper straws would decompose or lose flavor, especially in summer.
To address these inconveniences, Starbucks has been continuously researching alternative plastic materials. After receiving positive feedback from consumers in some stores, the company decided to roll it out nationwide. An evaluation determined that bioplastics made from sugarcane byproducts are recyclable while maintaining the strength and durability of traditional plastics.
Consumers responded positively, commenting, "It's finally back," and "This is the real Starbucks." However, some pointed out that "there are still some fundamental limitations that hinder the reduction of single-use items."
