TOEFL Speaking Task 2

The university has announced that starting next semester, the campus dining halls will eliminate all plastic straws and utensils, replacing them with biodegradable alternatives. The policy aims to reduce plastic waste on campus. Additionally, a small fee of $0.25 will be charged for any takeout container to encourage students to bring their own reusable containers.

M: Did you see the email about the new dining hall policy? I think it's a terrible idea. W: Really? I thought it was a great step toward sustainability. M: Well, the biodegradable utensils are fine, but the fee for takeout containers is unfair. Many students live off campus and rely on takeout because they don't have time to sit down. Charging extra just punishes them. W: But it's only 25 cents, and it encourages people to bring their own containers. M: That's my second point. Most students don't carry containers around, so they'll end up paying the fee every day. It adds up. Plus, the biodegradable options might cost more, but they still produce waste. The real solution is to make reusable containers more accessible, not charge students.