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Bye-Bye Plastic Straws — Starbucks Says It'll Phase Them Out By 2020

Starbucks says Seattle and Vancouver, British Columbia, stores will be the first to phase out plastic straws.
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Starbucks is saying "goodbye" to plastic straws. 

The coffee giant announced Monday that it'll phase out plastic straws from all of its stores by 2020. The company says the decision will eliminate more than 1 billion straws each year. 

But what'll the company use instead? Recyclable plastic lids that people on social media are comparing to "adult sippy cups." 

The lids were originally used for select Starbucks' drinks, including cold foam products, but now they'll be the standard for all iced drinks — except Frappuccinos. Customers who want or need a straw will be able to request one, but it'll be made out of an alternative material.

This announcement comes as several cities and countries are making moves to reduce or eliminate the use of single-use plastics — like straws, utensils and bags. 

Starbucks says Seattle and Vancouver, British Columbia, stores will be the first to phase out plastic straws.