Paper straws cost 'maybe 10 times' more than plastic straws, says ...

"If you buy a paper straw, it’s about two cents and a half," he said. Plastic straws cost about a half-cent.
But Merran, whose company distributes paper straws —using recyclable and organic materials — to coffee shops, Las Vegas casinos and large stadiums like Madison Square Garden, said it's all about perspective.
"You go from something that is very, very, very cheap, to something that is still actually cheap," he said.
However, Starbucks, in lieu of paper straws — which many customers have complained lose their shape too fast — said it will replace plastic straws with a recyclable sippy cup-type lid.
"Any green solution is a solution," Merran said.
The design studio Kikkerland designed these festive paper straws that can be tossed in a home composter after a party. They come in a box of 144 and can be purchased for under $10.
Allen J. Schaben | Los Angeles Times| Getty Images
He said other alternatives include re-usable straws, where customers clean their straws at home and bring them back each time they dine out, similar to a to-go mug.
As for how long the paper straws last after being inserted into liquid, Merran said it depends on the beverage and temperature.
"It should hold for about the time for you to [finish the] drink," he said. "It’s going to become a little soggy, but you can still drink from it. It’s like any alternative. It’s not perfect but it does the trick."