Starbucks launches new plant-based straws in Japan

Starbucks has introduced new biodegradable, plant-based straws to stores in Japan, another important action in support of the company’s environmental promise to be resource-positive and commitment to reduce waste by half by 2030. 

The new biodegradable, plant-based straws.

The new straw is made from Green Planet, a plant-based biodegradable biopolymer. Utilizing plant oils as its main component instead of oil derivatives, the new straw degrades naturally into CO2 and water by microorganisms living in sea water and soil, mitigating issues of ocean pollution with waste plastics including microplastics.

Through its lifecycle, the Green Planet straws emit less carbon dioxide than the FSC certified paper straw served by Starbucks, resulting in half the weight of discarded straws from Starbucks stores.

In terms of functionality and outlook, strength, durability and a smooth feel were front and center in the new straw’s design, along with maintaining the iconic Starbucks green color.

Green Planet straws are currently in 32 Starbucks stores in Okinawa Prefecture for customers who purchase iced beverages. They will be available in all Starbucks locations across Japan starting in March 2025. This will be followed by the launch of a thicker straw for seasonal Frappuccino beverages in all Japan stores by early April 2025.