#Compostable Straws

[ajaydmr]

Global ECO-Friendly Straws Market Outlook 2025: Key Drivers, Innovations & Revenue Forecast

As sustainability becomes a driving force in consumer habits and government policies, the Global ECO-Friendly Straws Market is witnessing unprecedented growth. From trendy cafes to large-scale retail chains, the adoption of biodegradable and reusable straws reflects a significant pivot from single-use plastics toward eco-conscious living.

Market Snapshot

Valued at USD 1.7 billion in 2023, the eco-friendly straws market is set to climb to USD 2.7 billion by 2032, with a CAGR of 5.3%. This surge is largely attributed to increasing awareness around plastic pollution, legal bans on plastic straws, and a shift in consumer expectations for sustainable alternatives.

As global efforts intensify to combat plastic waste—especially in marine environments—eco-straws have transitioned from a niche product to a mainstream necessity.

Understanding Eco-Friendly Straws

Eco-friendly straws are designed to reduce environmental impact. Unlike traditional plastic straws, these alternatives are either compostable or reusable, made from materials such as:

Paper

Bamboo

Wheat

Stainless steel

Glass

Silicone

PLA (Polylactic Acid, a plant-based bioplastic)

Whether single-use or long-term reusable, these straws offer a greener solution to an everyday item often taken for granted.

Key Growth Drivers

1. Environmental Awareness

Plastic straws, though small, have a massive environmental footprint. In the U.S. alone, hundreds of millions are used daily, many of which end up polluting waterways and harming marine life. Eco-friendly straws address this issue head-on by offering a sustainable substitute.

2. Regulatory Backing

Several governments worldwide have enacted bans or restrictions on single-use plastics, including straws. These regulations have catalyzed demand for biodegradable or reusable alternatives, encouraging businesses to transition quickly to eco-conscious products.

3. Evolving Consumer Preferences

Today’s consumers—especially Millennials and Gen Z—are more attuned to sustainability. They demand ethical practices and green alternatives from the brands they support. As a result, cafes, restaurants, and retailers are switching to eco-friendly straws to attract and retain environmentally aware customers.

4. Corporate Commitments to Sustainability

Many major global corporations have pledged to eliminate plastic straws from their operations. This top-down influence has a ripple effect, pushing smaller businesses to follow suit and helping to normalize sustainable choices.

Regional Market Breakdown

Asia Pacific Leads the Way

With 48.5% market share in 2023, the Asia Pacific region dominates the eco-friendly straws market. This leadership is supported by:

Rapid development in food and beverage services

A growing middle class with increased disposable income

National policies focused on plastic reduction

Rising public environmental consciousness

China, India, Japan, and South Korea are seeing a strong uptick in eco-product demand, with eco-straws gaining fast acceptance.

North America and Europe

Strong regulatory frameworks, widespread eco-awareness, and early adoption of green products make these regions key players in market growth. Corporate initiatives and environmentally responsible policies further solidify their position.

Emerging Economies

Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa are in the early stages of eco-straw adoption. However, growing environmental advocacy and potential policy changes could unlock significant market opportunities in the coming years.

Market Challenges

Despite positive momentum, the eco-friendly straws industry faces several challenges:

Cost: Producing biodegradable or reusable straws is more expensive than plastic counterparts.

Durability: Materials like paper often fall short in high-moisture or temperature-sensitive environments.

Consumer Adaptation: In some markets, adoption remains slow due to price sensitivity or habit.

Supply Chain Limitations: The availability of raw materials and manufacturing scalability can vary globally.

Nonetheless, ongoing investment in R&D and material innovation is steadily overcoming these obstacles.

FAQs

Q1: What materials are commonly used for eco-friendly straws? A: Popular options include paper, bamboo, PLA, stainless steel, glass, and silicone.

Q2: Are all eco-friendly straws reusable? A: Not all. Stainless steel, silicone, and glass are reusable, while paper and PLA are designed for single use but are compostable.

Q3: Why are plastic straws being banned? A: They contribute heavily to pollution and harm marine ecosystems, leading governments to push for more sustainable alternatives.

Q4: Is the demand for eco-straws seasonal? A: While there’s often a peak in summer, regulatory changes and long-term environmental trends ensure consistent demand year-round.

Q5: What sectors are driving demand? A: Primarily foodservice, hospitality, catering, and retail industries.

The Road Ahead

Looking forward, the eco-friendly straws market is set for robust expansion. Technological advancements are making eco-straws more durable and affordable, while collaborations between governments, non-profits, and private enterprises are driving awareness and adoption.

Social media campaigns and environmental education are also playing vital roles, encouraging both businesses and consumers to make greener choices.

Final Thoughts

The eco-friendly straws market is more than a response to environmental regulations—it represents a global cultural shift toward sustainability. Businesses aligning with this trend not only stay compliant but also appeal to the growing base of eco-conscious consumers.

With ongoing innovation and increasing support from stakeholders at all levels, eco-friendly straws are poised to become a universal standard in sustainable living.

👉 For a Free PDF Sample Copy, visit: https://dimensionmarketresearch.com/report/eco-friendly-straws-market/request-sample/

📖 For further details and in-depth market analysis, explore the full report here: https://dimensionmarketresearch.com/report/eco-friendly-straws-market/

[ecogardiuns]

Go Green with Biodegradable Straws

Switch to biodegradable straws for an eco-friendly choice! Made from natural materials like Corn Starch (PLA), these straws decompose quickly and reduce plastic waste. Perfect for any drink, they’re durable and safe for the environment and human health. Make a positive impact and enjoy. Order biodegradable straws today and help protect our planet and human lives!

[nardacci-does-art]

Inspired by a plushie I saw once.

[songs-of-stones]

I GOT TO GRUB AROUND IN THE DIRT YESTERDAY FOR TWO HOURS AND PLANT MY SEEDLINGS IT WAS MAGNIFICENT

[paperconsumption]

fuck compostable straws i took this out of the wrapper and it’s already cracked down the middle you can’t ask me to live like this

[greentekkid-blog]

5 Myths About Bioplastic Utensils Debunked

In the quest for more sustainable living, bioplastic utensils have emerged as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastic cutlery. However, like many innovative solutions, bioplastic utensils are surrounded by a range of myths and misconceptions. In this blog, we’ll debunk five common myths about bioplastic utensils and provide the facts you need to make informed choices. Contact us for more information or shop all of our products.

Myth 1: Bioplastic Utensils Are Just as Harmful as Regular Plastic

Debunked: One of the most pervasive myths is that bioplastic utensils are no better for the environment than conventional plastic. While it’s true that not all bioplastics are created equal, many bioplastic utensils are made from renewable resources like cornstarch, sugarcane, or potato starch. These materials have a significantly lower carbon footprint compared to petroleum-based plastics. Moreover, many bioplastics are designed to be compostable, meaning they can break down into natural elements without leaving harmful residues, unlike traditional plastics which can persist in the environment for hundreds of years.

Myth 2: Bioplastic Utensils Don’t Compost Properly

Debunked: Another misconception is that bioplastic utensils do not compost effectively and end up in landfills, just like regular plastic. The truth is, bioplastics require specific conditions to break down, such as industrial composting facilities where temperatures and humidity are controlled. While it’s true that these utensils won’t decompose as quickly in a backyard compost, in the right conditions, they can turn into compost within a few months, contributing to soil health rather than pollution.

Myth 3: Bioplastic Utensils Are Not Durable

Debunked: There’s a common belief that bioplastic utensils are flimsy and less durable than their traditional plastic counterparts. However, advancements in bioplastic technology have led to the production of utensils that are not only strong and sturdy but also heat-resistant and capable of handling various types of food. Many users find that high-quality bioplastic utensils can perform just as well as, if not better than, conventional plastic ones.

Myth 4: Bioplastic Utensils Are Too Expensive

Debunked: While it’s true that bioplastics were once more expensive due to limited production and higher material costs, the increasing demand for sustainable products has led to greater production efficiency and a reduction in costs. Today, the price difference between bioplastic and traditional plastic utensils is narrowing, making them a more accessible option for consumers and businesses alike. Additionally, the environmental benefits of choosing bioplastics can outweigh the slight cost difference, especially when considering the long-term impact on the planet.

Myth 5: Bioplastic Utensils Contribute to Deforestation

Debunked: Some critics argue that the production of bioplastics leads to deforestation, as large areas of land are used to grow the crops needed for bioplastic production. However, the reality is more nuanced. Many bioplastic manufacturers source their raw materials from sustainably managed farms that use crop rotation and other environmentally friendly practices. Additionally, research is ongoing to develop bioplastics from non-food sources, such as agricultural waste, which would further reduce the environmental impact.

Conclusion

Bioplastic utensils represent a promising step towards reducing our reliance on traditional plastics. By debunking these myths, we hope to provide clarity and encourage more people to consider bioplastics as a viable, sustainable option. At GreenTek Planet, we’re committed to offering eco-friendly products that help protect our environment. Choose bioplastics with confidence, knowing that you’re making a positive impact on our planet.

[jensownzoo]

Hot damn they're mowing my neighbor's grass right now!

The reason why this is so exciting for me is that the property has been unoccupied for at least 15 years now. They've always used a service to keep it reasonably mowed, so that's not an issue.

What is GREAT is that I know for certain that there hasn't been any chemicals sprayed on the lawn that whole time and that grass clippings are FANTASTIC mulch for my tomatoes. And my yard produces very little clipping because it's a small area of zoysia (thanks to the drought it stayed dormant almost all of last year).

I just transplanted my tomatoes in and that grass is nearly a foot tall right now (first mow of the season). The timing couldn't have been better, though the rain we're going to get tonight means I need to grab my rake and my ikea bag and go gather it up immediately instead of letting it dry out for a few days first.

[alishavisualdiary]

Module 1 Post 3: Compostable Straw

This is a compostable straw — not the annoying paper straws that get soggy halfway through drinking a beverage, but a straw that feels almost like plastic but is miraculously compostable. Where I live, there is a ban against plastic straws. For a while, coffee shops and boba tea shops in my state were struggling because they couldn't give out straws for their drinks. They started giving paper straws, but customers complained so much due to how fragile the straws were. Sturdy, compostable straws became a desideratum in my state — eventually, these straws were created and changed the straw game. I don't even quite understand the technology that goes into creating this straw (how is it compostable even though it feels so sturdy and plastic-like?). However, I do know that the inventors must have thought boldly and pushed the bounds of their thinking to be able to come up with this straw when for so long, paper straws had been the only solution anyone else could come up with. This is why I believe this simple, human-centered design product is an example of design leadership. In the grand scheme of things, a straw is very small. However, I know that this invention had a huge impact on my state's local businesses and essentially revolutionized disposable straws in my state — now, these are everywhere, and it is widely considered the straw norm. Sometimes the smallest things carry such a great impact!

[shuangtong97]

Meeting Foodservice Demands with a straws manufactory

The global foodservice industry operates at a massive scale, serving billions of beverages each year—many of which still rely on disposable drinkware. In the middle of this demand, a well-established  straws manufactory  like Soton Straws plays a vital role by producing high-performance, sustainable alternatives that meet both functional and environmental needs. Behind every cup served is a complex supply chain that starts with manufacturing precision.

Restaurants, cafés, catering services, and food trucks all require straws that match the consistency of their beverages, the branding of their packaging, and the regulations of their regions. That’s where manufacturing flexibility becomes crucial. Soton Straws provides paper, PLA, and other biodegradable straws in multiple sizes, from thin mixers to extra-wide smoothie straws, catering to the unique needs of different businesses.

Consistency and safety are top priorities in foodservice. Straws must be food-grade, odorless, and resistant to moisture for the duration of the drink. To ensure this, Soton Straws applies strict material selection protocols, followed by multi-phase quality control procedures. All products are tested for durability, taste neutrality, and degradation timelines before shipping, which assures foodservice clients of uniform reliability.

Scalability is another strength of an effective straws manufacturing system. Whether a small bistro needs 5,000 custom-printed paper straws or a global franchise requires a monthly supply of five million PLA variants, Soton Straws has the infrastructure to respond without delays. This is made possible through automated lines and streamlined order processing systems that reduce production times while maintaining quality assurance.

Customization adds value in competitive markets. Soton Straws allows foodservice clients to tailor straws to fit brand identities, offering choices in color, logo placement, and even wrapper design. Eco-friendly doesn’t mean boring—restaurants can now serve drinks with biodegradable straws that reflect their aesthetic and commitment to sustainability at the same time.

Environmental regulations have made the support of a compliant straws manufactory essential. In countries and cities where plastic bans are enforced, non-compliant straws can result in fines or business interruptions. Soton Straws stays ahead of regulatory changes by offering globally compliant products, complete with certifications like EU compostability and FDA approval, allowing foodservice providers to operate worry-free.

Logistics is another key advantage. Soton Straws maintains regional distribution hubs and has partnered with international carriers to ensure timely delivery, even during peak demand periods. Products are packed efficiently to reduce shipping costs and carbon footprint, further contributing to sustainable practices throughout the supply chain.

Sustainability isn’t just a product feature—it’s a business philosophy. At Soton Straws, this extends to how employees are trained, how machines are powered, and how waste is minimized. The company employs clean production techniques, water-saving technologies, and material recycling practices to continuously lower its environmental impact.

Foodservice companies are looking for more than a supplier—they’re looking for a partner who understands the operational pressure of daily service, while helping them transition into the green economy. Soton Straws offers the expertise, capacity, and vision to meet those needs with reliability and environmental accountability.To explore foodservice-ready straw options from Soton Straws, visit:  https://www.sotonstraws.com/product/ .

[ccmoatyim]

I like paper straws, and I'm tired of pretending I don't!

[esperanzawave]

we all know that mcdonalds has the superior straw, it's just facts, but did you know that the compostable straw reigns supreme? It not only saves the environment and is a nice green tint, but is also more chew resistant and doesn't split or get a hole in it after being chaotic with the lid. I have stress tested these straws every day for a whole year and let me tell you, not a single one has let me down. And I chew tf outta my straws.

[good2gobags]

Around the world, 400 million tonnes of plastic waste is generated annually. It is a staggering number that should make people realise the brevity of the situation vis-à-vis the pollution it generates.

Fortunately, many are choosing the path of sustainability way, but for those who haven’t, here are five reasons why it is beneficial to switch to eco-friendly products.

Reduce environmental impact

Switching to eco-friendly products significantly diminishes the environmental footprint. Using products like eco-friendly shopping bags, compostable drinking straws and compostable packaging bags reduces the negative impact significantly as opposed to using plastics. Good2Go’s products are game changers in reducing carbon footprint. Given the bio-compostable nature of our products, waste accumulation has become a thing of the past.

Support sustainable practices

Eco-friendly products are often made from renewable resources and designed with sustainability in mind. We at Good2Go manufacture such products. Made from cornstarch, our products are not only, durable, but also eco-friendly. Following strict sustainable methods and advanced machinery we are helping secure the planet’s future.

Boosting brand reputation

Using sustainable products like eco-friendly shopping bags, compostable drinking straws, and compostable packaging bags boost brand image, especially for businesses that have started to embark on a green path. It benefits companies, as they can attract eco-conscious consumers who are looking to reach their goals to save the environment.

Cost savings over time

Although, arguably, eco-friendly products might have a higher cost, they often lead to savings over time. For example, if a company uses compostable packaging bags to export its products, it reduces shipping costs significantly as such kinds of bags are lighter.

Promote healthier choices

Finally, using eco-friendly products is a healthy choice. Since bio-compostable products don’t emit CO2 like their plastic counterparts, which makes it a safer option for both the environment and personal health.

At Good2Go, we prioritize using sustainable materials and eco-conscious manufacturing processes to deliver top-quality products that positively impact the environment. Our commitment to sustainability is more than just a business choice; it’s a pledge to advocate for a greener future.

Every eco-friendly decision is a step towards creating a more sustainable world. By reshaping our shopping habits, we can collectively work towards a healthier planet for future generations. So, the next time you’re at the checkout counter, remember that every small choice counts. Choose Good2Go, choose eco-friendly options, and join us in making a positive difference for our planet. Let’s be part of the solution together!

[teaboot]

One time, I had an English professor tell me I should stop using my inhaler because it was bad for the environment.

Yeah an if you dropped dead it would significantly reduce your carbon footprint too, huh. What if we ALL just stopped breathing. Can’t be throwing fistfuls of plastic fuckin straws directly into the South Pacific when you got a BPM of zilch, can you? What a fuckin innovator. Was he head of your nation’s EPA *directly* before he retired to become world’s youngest baseline edgelord 4chan ass 14 year old boy with tenure, or did he wait for his 3rd consecutive Nobel peace prize before giving someone else a chance? Ask him if his back hurts from carrying the weight of all the world’s most pressing concerns to and from Chuck E Cheese each night or if his tiny spiny propellor hat lightens the load a bit. Did his big red clown nose come standard with his tweed set or he spring for the premium model with the biodegradeable sustainable foam and the super-boosted honk-honk action? Are his size 23 clown bitch oxfords custom? Does he take one off to use as a canoe on his annual vacations to his summer home in the balmy and tropical shit fuck dumbass islands or does he just levitate everywhere he goes by the power of his unparalleled Xmen level intellect. Can you ask him if Magneto is gonna spare the human race to run laps in his hamster wheel electrical generator complex or if he’s just gonna wipe us all the fuck out for the carbon tax credit. Ask him if the weight of his gigantic balls dragging in the ground behind him everywhere he goes adds to the mileage on his Tesla. When he wipes his ass does he use single ply to save the trees or just a fistful of baby ducklings that he can then gently bathe by hand with water collected by the rain barrel in the endangered orchid garden by the solarium on the west side of his sprawling villa, the one he bought when he sold the patent for the perpetual motion motion machine he built out of toothpicks and marshmallows in third grade before the obvious intellectual gap between himself and the rest of us bumbling simpletons weighed him down and killed his passion to create. What other wisdom has he yet to share with the world? What other knowledge that only he and my reiki-healing essential-oil-drinking violet-aura neighbour know that may benefit us all? Holy shit, have I been drinking WATER my whole life? That shit that whales live in? Guess I’ll just go lay in a hole out back and wait for the compost heap to take me. Should I confess my sins to Captain Planet first, so he may redeem my wicked soul in the true Eco Catholic way, or was that recyclable soda can I threw in the trash downtown at last year’s garlic bread festival because there were no recycling bins provided the final straw that made me unworthy of glorious green salvation? BRB, gotta go strip naked and flagellate myself before the begonias so that they may know the depth of my remorse. Don’t worry, I only buy locally-sourced hemp lashes produced by small home businesses at the farmer’s market, they have a three-for-two sale on Sundays if you bring your own reusable bag. Christ on a fucking cupcake

[biodegradablerestaurantpackaging]

The Top 6 Eco Friendly Packaging for Food to Try in Your Business | Eco-Pliant 

Eco-friendly packaging is crucial for businesses looking to reduce their environmental impact. Here are six popular eco friendly packaging for food that you might consider incorporating into your business:

Biodegradable Plastics:

Traditional plastics can take hundreds of years to break down, but biodegradable  clamshell are designed to decompose more quickly. They are made from plant-based materials like cornstarch or sugarcane and can be a suitable alternative to conventional plastics.

Compostable Packaging:

Compostable packaging is made from organic materials like cornstarch, sugarcane, or bamboo. These materials break down into nutri  

ent-rich compost when subjected to the right conditions. Make sure to check for certification standards like ASTM D6400 or EN 13432 to ensure the compostability of the packaging.

Recycled Cardboard:

Using recycled paper bags with handles is an effective way to reduce the demand for new raw materials. Look for packaging made from post-consumer recycled content. Additionally, cardboard is widely recyclable, making it a sustainable option.

Mushroom Packaging (Mycelium):

Mycelium, the root system of mushrooms, can be used to create a sustainable and biodegradable packaging material. It is grown in molds to create a lightweight, durable, and compostable packaging option.

Edible Packaging:

Edible packaging involves creating packaging materials that are safe for consumption or can be easily broken down in the environment. Examples include edible films made from seaweed or starch, providing a unique and sustainable solution.

Reusable Packaging:

Encouraging customers to return and reuse packaging is an excellent way to reduce waste. Consider using durable materials such as glass or metal containers that can be easily cleaned and reused. This approach aligns with the zero-waste movement and promotes a circular economy.

Before implementing any eco-friendly packaging solution, it's important to consider factors such as the specific needs of your products, local recycling or composting infrastructure, and any relevant regulations. Additionally, educating your customers about the eco-friendly choices you've made and how they can responsibly dispose of the packaging can further enhance the positive impact of your efforts.

Choose Eco-Pliant for all your eco-friendly packaging needs. Our commitment to providing sustainable, biodegradable restaurant packaging aligns with your values and contributes to a greener, healthier planet.

[greentekkid-blog]

Why Choose Hemp Straws for Your Business?

As businesses increasingly prioritize sustainability, choosing eco-friendly products like hemp straws has become a powerful way to appeal to conscious consumers. Switching to hemp straws not only offers significant environmental benefits but also enhances brand image by aligning with eco-friendly values. Here’s a look at why incorporating hemp straws into your business can be a game-changer.

Sustainability at Its Core

Hemp straws are a sustainable alternative to plastic and even some plant-based straws. Hemp requires minimal water, grows quickly, and doesn’t rely on harmful pesticides. By choosing hemp straws, your business reduces plastic waste, minimizes environmental impact, and supports a product that’s fully biodegradable. Highlighting this in your marketing shows a commitment to sustainability, resonating with customers who value green initiatives.

Attract Eco-Conscious Customers

Today’s consumers are more eco-conscious than ever, seeking brands that make environmentally responsible choices. Offering hemp straws demonstrates your business’s dedication to reducing single-use plastics. Customers increasingly prefer brands that support sustainable practices, and the simple switch to hemp can create a positive impression, building loyalty and encouraging repeat business.

Eco-Friendly Branding

Switching to hemp straws is more than just a product choice; it’s a statement. Branding your business as eco-friendly helps it stand out in a competitive market. Hemp straws not only look unique and natural, adding an aesthetic appeal to any beverage, but they also send a message of commitment to the planet. Your customers will appreciate that every sip they take is a small step toward a greener world.

Durability and Usability

Unlike paper straws that can break down mid-use, hemp straws are durable and long-lasting. They maintain their shape and integrity in cold and hot beverages, ensuring a pleasant experience for your customers. Offering hemp straws enhances the customer experience while also adding value to your product offerings.

Competitive Edge in the Market

With more businesses focusing on sustainability, standing out is essential. Choosing unique, eco-friendly options like hemp straws can set your business apart from competitors. Customers notice these thoughtful details, and your choice of hemp straws can help position your business as an industry leader in environmental responsibility.

Ready to Make the Switch?

Enhance your brand and appeal to eco-conscious customers by choosing hemp straws for your business. Visit GreenTek Planet today to explore our range of sustainable products and make a meaningful impact. Together, we can help your business thrive while contributing to a greener, healthier planet.

[jensownzoo]

Cornflower. Can't stop taking pics of these because they're dominating the front in-ground vegetable bed right now.

However the Climbing Peace rose is putting out some excellent effort, using a small redbud tree for support as it arches over the bed.

On a smaller note, the sweet alyssum in the back bed is blooming. It started out white and has progressively been getting more purple as time goes on (Royal Carpet variety).

I'm fairly impressed with how fast these tomato plants have doubled in size. They're just starting to put out flower bracts too or I'd be worried the bed was too nitrogen-rich. These are the ones I transplanted in trench-style, so we'll see how well they do once the rain goes away in summer. Trying to assess the benefit of more overall roots (trench-style) vs the benefit of roots in two different depths (deep-planted style) in my particular climate and ability to water. I suspect that the trenchers are going to struggle more when the drought conditions hit because I only give each plant 2 quarts of water once weekly when it's not raining to stretch out the supply I have collected in the rain barrels (no outdoor spigot due to Plumbing Issues).

I picked up three good gardening finds during this week's run for food waste for the chickens. The first is a nice load of nursery pots which was expected due to mother's day weekend.

Now I just have to wash and disinfect all of them. I also picked up three trays that the pots fit into so the clean pots will get racked and stacked in the shed in them for ease of grabbing a whole flat when I need to pot up anything.

Then there was a small bag of chopped straw:

I did fill one of the nesting boxes with it simply for convenience, but the rest will be used for mulch in situations where woodchips aren't appropriate.

And finally the haul that had me the most excited:

Half a grocery sack full of "old" seeds! There are over 20 packets and none of them are older than 2020 (5 years younger than a lot of the seeds I worked with this year btw). Quite a variety of vegetables, though nothing too unusual. There was one packet of peppermint seed, which I really don't need given the amount that's already growing, so I've earmarked that for guerrilla alleyway beautification.

Anyway, I'm happy about how things are going gardenwise this year. I think the combination of adding mineral-based fertilizers last year, getting plenty of rain this spring, and breaking things up into little tasks done every day (and kept accountable by posting here) has really helped to kick things off.