Manufacturing paper consumes more energy and water and emits more greenhouse gases than plastics. It also contributes to deforestation, which, ironically, was a reason that plastic bags became so popular in the first place. But despite science-based evidence to the contrary, paper largely is seen by the public at large as an environmentally preferable substitute for plastics. To retain customers and attract new ones, brand owners are left to find ways to make paper perform as well as plastics, which has been a challenge. Paper straws immediately come to mind.
