The Beardsley Zoo in Bridgeport has made the switch from plastic to paper straws.

Zoo director Greg Dancho says that while paper straws won't completely eliminate plastic waste in the environment, it's a start.

The cafe has also switched from Styrofoam food containers to biodegradable ones. Utensils provided are made from 30 percent renewable materials.

Dancho says the zoo is moving forth with the conversion, despite the cost, because conservation is one of its main goals.

Some attendees told News 12 that they didn't care much for the new straws, saying they have a "different" taste. Others didn't notice a difference.

There are plans for the zoo's gift shop to provide metal straws for purchase and also swap plastic bags for paper ones.

The zoo says it will still provide anyone with a straw who needs one for a medical reason.