Starbucks introduces biodegradable plant-based straws across all stores in Japan

Starbucks has expanded the rollout of its new biodegradable, plant-based straws across stores in Japan, following an initial announcement in December 2024. This move aligns with the company’s ongoing commitment to reducing waste and achieving its goal of cutting waste by half by 2030.

The new straws, made from Green Planet™, a plant-based biodegradable biopolymer, provide an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional plastic straws. Unlike oil-derived plastics, these straws use plant oils as their primary component, allowing them to naturally degrade into CO2 and water through microbial activity in seawater and soil. This innovation aims to help mitigate ocean pollution, including microplastics. Additionally, the Green Planet™ straws generate lower carbon emissions over their lifecycle compared to the FSC® certified paper straws Starbucks previously introduced.

After an initial roll out in 32 Starbucks stores in Okinawa Prefecture, the straws should now be available at all Starbucks locations across Japan. The company also plans to introduce a thicker version of the straw, designed for seasonal Frappuccino® beverages, in early April 2025.

Starbucks has been making continuous efforts to reduce single-use plastic. Since transitioning away from plastic straws in 2018, the company has introduced FSC® certified paper straws in 2020, followed by a thicker version in 2021. Beyond straws, Starbucks Japan has also adopted FSC® certified paper cups, biomass-based cutlery for takeaway orders, and reusable resin cups for iced beverages served in stores, further reinforcing its sustainability initiatives.