Momentum for eliminating plastic straws picked up last summer, as brand after brand announced plans to find an alternative over the next few years. Since then, we've seen some positive changes—local coffee shops not carrying plastic straws, major chains only giving out plastic straws by request, and more paper straws popping up in their place. And while news about the environmentally-friendly trend has died down, now is the time when some of those directives are actually going into effect.

Ben & Jerry's, which announced in August they would only offer plastic straws by request, is doing away with them altogether by April 9 (Free Cone Day!). Paper straws will be available instead, though they too will be behind counters and available by request only. The ice cream shop is also eliminating plastic spoons, switching to wooden ones at all of the company's 600+ scoop shops.

By 2020, Ben & Jerry's has committed to finding an alternative to clear plastic cups, plastic-lined cups, and plastic lids. The company's famous pints may get adjustments too; while they're already made with Forest Stewardship Council Certified paperboard, the coating of polyethylene, which creates a moisture barrier, makes them difficult to recycle. As such, the company is trying to find a better option.

"In the short term, eliminating plastic straws and spoons is not going to save the world," Jenna Evans, Ben & Jerry's Global Sustainability Manager, said. "But it's a good start toward changing expectations. We're committed to exploring additional options to further reduce the use of disposable items."

In its press release, Ben & Jerry's pointed out a "baked-in solution to plastic waste": waffle cones. More reason to go cone!

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Madison Flager Lifestyle Editor Madison Flager is the Lifestyle Editor at Delish.com; she covers food news and trends, travel-worthy food experiences, and the products you need in your kitchen right now.

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