Starbucks has introduced new biodegradable, plant-based straws in its stores across Japan as part of its commitment to reducing waste by half by 2030.

The straws are made from Green Planet, a biopolymer derived from plant oils instead of oil-based materials. They degrade naturally into CO2 and water through microorganisms in seawater and soil, addressing marine pollution, including microplastics. Compared to the FSC-certified paper straws currently in use, Green Planet straws emit less carbon dioxide throughout their lifecycle and reduce the overall weight of straw waste.

This initiative follows Starbucks' transition from oil-derived plastic straws for iced beverages in 2018 to FSC-certified paper straws in Japan in 2020, with a thicker version introduced in 2021. The company has also implemented FSC-certified paper cups, biomass-based cutlery for to-go orders and reusable resin cups for in-store iced beverages to further reduce waste.

Approximately 200 Starbucks' stores have been certified as 'Greener Stores,' and 900 locations recycle coffee grounds to reduce food waste.

The straws are being trialled in 32 stores in Okinawa Prefecture for iced beverages and will be rolled out nationwide in March 2025. A thicker version for seasonal Frappuccino beverages will follow in April 2025.

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