Who says certain drinks taste better through a straw? The world is realizing the hazards of plastic products and their irresponsible disposal as they are often thrown into river banks, canals, and along the road. Many believe it is a lack of discipline that is destroying the environment and, in a country where government officials lack the will to instill discipline among their constituents, it is a serious reason why we are fighting to preserve the environment.

People must realize the risks of improperly disposing plastic straws are creating a hazard for future generations and restaurants, carinderias, and eateries should avoid using them. Who says one cannot drink out of a can without a straw? If restaurants continue to serve drinks with straws, bring it to their attention and reject its usage! People must take the initiative in avoiding plastic materials in order to help the environment.

Another serious concern is plastic cups; while the primary issue is proper disposal, there are paper cups or drinking glasses that can be used as alternatives.

Government officials must emphasize discipline when it comes to the proper disposal of plastics. While ordinances against the use of plastic straws and bags may have been passed, the same pattern remains, nobody is ever serious in enforcing the law.

Sad to say, politicians are still afraid of the electorate even if it’s for the good of the environment.

I coined the slogan “Only the sick use plastic drinking straws – are you sick?” as part of a campaign against the use of plastic straws. If non-governmental organizations and civic clubs are concerned over the matter, they should make it their campaign.

While we should make the environment a better place for future generations, who among the readers even cares? That is what we have to think about.

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This column greets JB Ongsingco, Anna Liza Lacson, Elsie Gonzaga, Jo-anne Yoshida, Raymund Javellana, Marlon Navarro, Jennylind Cordero, Mini Javellana-Jimenez, Charles Lim, Christine Guevarra, Manu Gidwani, Vladimir Gonzalez, Cedric Sason, Yvonne Villacorte, Kris Mago, and Charo Lagamon./WDJ