The Biden administration has announced a comprehensive strategy to phase out single-use plastics throughout federal operations, aiming for a complete ban by 2035. This initiative includes the elimination of items like plastic cutlery, straws, and containers, with a target to end their use in government-related food services by 2027. The White House emphasizes that addressing plastic pollution is essential for public health and environmental sustainability, citing the U.S. as a major consumer of plastics. However, the plan has faced criticism from Republican lawmakers, who argue that focusing on plastic utensils amid other pressing global issues is misguided and could raise costs. While conservation groups have praised the initiative, some critics suggest that the timing of such a policy may seem disconnected from more urgent crises the country faces.