Hyatt announced an international plan to eliminate single-use plastic straws and drink picks. Starting Sept. 1, straws and picks are available by request only. Eco-friendly alternatives are available in some locations.

The change is part of Hyatt’s global initiative and 2020 Environmental Sustainability Vision, to minimize and divert food waste, source responsibly and reduce water and energy consumption.

Other sustainability progress the brand made recently includes switching to 100 percent sustainable Avendra suppliers and distributors, surpassing its goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions per square meter by 25 percent in all regions compared to 2006 and offering recyclable earbuds at fitness centers at Hyatt hotels across North America.

This is also Hyatt’s 10-year anniversary of its collaboration with Clean the World, the non-profit that collects and recycles soap and shampoo products, then donates them to communities in need. Since the partnership began, Hyatt donated more than 475,000 pounds of bar soaps and toiletries.

“At Hyatt, we care for people so they can be their best, and this care extends to our communities and to preserving resources for future generations. Eliminating plastic straws and drink picks builds on the environmental sustainability programs we have in place and further drives our global efforts to reduce environmental impact,” said Frank Lavey, senior vice president, global operations, Hyatt. “This is a meaningful step, and our commitment doesn’t stop with straws and drink picks. We will continue exploring viable alternatives everywhere we can.”