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Fellow plastic-straw lovers, today we mourn a little. The Federal Court of Appeal just upheld the federal government’s 2021 decision to list “plastic manufactured items” as toxic under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act. That means the 2022 single-use plastics ban stays firmly in place—no more manufacturing or selling plastic straws, cutlery, checkout bags, stir sticks, takeout containers, or six-pack rings.
Look, I get the pollution concern, but nothing beats a sturdy plastic straw gliding through a thick milkshake without turning into wet cardboard halfway through. Paper straws are the ultimate buzzkill: soggy, floppy, and gone before you finish your drink. Former environment minister Steven Guilbeault called this ruling “a major victory,” and environmental groups are cheering. Industry is reviewing its options, and one more legal challenge is still pending, so hope isn’t totally dead. Until then, raise your (plastic) straw high and enjoy the good ones while they last!
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