National Skip the Straw Day
Ditch plastic on Skip the Straw Day! Americans use 500 million straws daily. Skipping straws reduces plastic pollution and protects marine life while saving money for businesses.
About National Skip the Straw Day
Ditch plastic on Skip the Straw Day! Americans use 500 million straws daily. Skipping straws reduces plastic pollution and protects marine life while saving money for businesses.
History & origins
National Skip the Straw Day was founded in 2017 by the Coral Keepers, a group of students at Whitehall Middle School in Whitehall, Michigan, with their advisor Susan Tate. National Day Calendar later declared it an annual observance on the fourth Friday in February. The day is informal rather than an official government holiday, and it was created to encourage people to cut back on disposable plastic straws and think about plastic pollution.
Why it matters
National Skip the Straw Day highlights a small habit that can add up to a lot of plastic waste, especially in food service and takeout drinks. It also helps people notice easier swaps, like refusing a straw, using a reusable one, or choosing straw-free service, which can support marine conservation and reduce single-use plastic use.
How to celebrate
Refuse plastic straws. Use reusable straws. Spread awareness about plastic pollution. Support straw-free restaurants. Share environmental tips.
Facts
- Americans use 500 million straws daily
- Plastic straws take 200 years to decompose
- Straws are top 10 ocean pollutants
- Many cities have banned plastic straws
- Reusable straws save money and environment
Frequently asked questions
When is National Skip the Straw Day in 2026?
National Skip the Straw Day in 2026 is on Saturday, February 28, 2026.
What is National Skip the Straw Day?
National Skip the Straw Day is an environmental awareness day encouraging people to skip disposable plastic straws. It focuses on reducing plastic pollution and protecting marine life.
Who started National Skip the Straw Day?
The Coral Keepers, a student group at Whitehall Middle School in Whitehall, Michigan, started it in 2017. Their advisor, Susan Tate, helped found the observance.
How do you celebrate National Skip the Straw Day?
Refuse plastic straws, use a reusable straw if you need one, and support restaurants that offer straw-free drinks. Sharing plastic-pollution facts and joining cleanup efforts are also fitting ways to participate.
Is National Skip the Straw Day an official holiday?
No, it is an informal awareness observance, not an official government holiday. Its purpose is educational and environmental rather than ceremonial.
Share
Help others discover this day by sharing it.