As engineers, we have the social responsibility to safeguard the sustainable development of engineering and technology. Polypropylene (PP) drinking straws are cheap to produce and convenient for consumers, however, they can come at a much higher cost if they are not disposed of properly.

(a) Complete a life cycle analysis of a PP drinking straw, explaining the various inputs and outputs for each phase of the life cycle, and considering their impact on the environment, society, human health, and resource reserves.

(b) How would you propose to reduce the environmental damage caused by PP drinking straws? Briefly explain 3 alternatives.