Strawless Campaign

Mass plastic has become a big problem which produces large amounts of toxins and chemicals absorbed by marine animals and bio-accumulates through the food chain. This thus affects the overall ecosystem. Plastic straws are one of the top ten contributors to marine debris. It takes only 10 minutes to drink with a plastic straw, however, it takes up to 500 years to decompose.

InterContinental Malta has decided to take a stand and have stopped placing plastic straws in beverages served in their outlets, making them one of the first hotels on the island to do so. Drinks such as the specialised cocktails served at Waterbiscuit, have been altered to not needing to use a straw. A biodegradable option is available for clients requesting one with their drink. However, staff from InterContinental Malta would like to shift client behaviour by ending the belief that a straw has to be provided with every beverage served.

“When looking into the use of straws in our outlets, we were taken aback by the numbers. Straws are used for a few minutes, but when disposed, they are present in the marine environment for a very long period of time. By introducing this act, we can significantly reduce the disposal of single use plastic and we are certain our guests will appreciate and support us with this” commented Mr van Kan, Area General Manager, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts.

This is the one of the first steps in InterContinental Malta’s plan to become a more eco-friendly hotel, thus contributing to the island’s sustainability. The hotel is also supported 89.7 bay’s campaign of ‘Making Malta green and clean’.
With one small change we can have a big impact.

We currently have a stand in our bar as per the attached photo and we post on social media. This will be enhanced during the EWWR.