ALEESYA AMANI BINTI MOHAMMAD FAIZOL MAKTAB RENDAH SAINS MARA TAIPING
Technological use of beeswax offers an organic, non-toxic alternative to plastic products. Beeswax straws, made by coating cotton fabric with beeswax, present a reusable solution to single-use plastics due to their flexible and tacky surface. Unlike plastic or paper straws, beeswax straws maintain durability, as beeswax, produced by honeybees to build honeycombs (Tulloch, 1970), offers water-resistant and antimicrobial properties. Paper straws, though more eco-friendly than plastic, often lose structural integrity when exposed to liquids (Qiu et al., 2022). Beeswax straws, however, could overcome these limitations, though further research is needed to assess their performance (Li et al., 2023)(Qiu et al., 2022)(Nechita & Roman, 2020)(Rossi et al., 2020). As the world faces a plastic pollution crisis, sustainable alternatives like beeswax straws become crucial. This project explores their potential to reduce plastic waste while providing durability and hygiene. By leveraging beeswax’s natural qualities, these straws present a promising solution to plastic straws, reflecting a commitment to sustainable living and addressing global environmental challenges.
In conclusion, beeswax straws present a viable, eco-friendly alternative to single-use plastics. With their reusable, durable, and hygienic properties, they offer a promising solution to reducing plastic waste. While further research is necessary to fully understand their long-term viability, the potential of beeswax straws in promoting sustainability is significant, representing a step forward in the effort to address global environmental challenges.