Banning straws might be good for the planet – but bad for people with disability or swallowing problems. What is ‘eco-ableism’?

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Kate Anderson does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment. Deakin University and Flinders University provide funding as members of The Conversation AU. View all partners This month, Victoria became the latest Australian state to ban single-use plastics, including straws. While this is a win for the environment and marine life, it will come at a price for social inclusion. Disposable straws enable many people to safely enjoy drinks without prior planning or assistance. Sustainable alternatives to plastic are available, but these options are often unsafe or unusable for consumers with complex medical needs. And while the new ban makes exceptions for people with medical requirements to purchase plastic straws, these items will no longer be accessible at supermarkets, bars, or restaurants without staff assistance. The ban also

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Banning straws might be good for the planet – but bad for people with disability or swallowing problems. What is ‘eco-ableism’?

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