39 brands of straws have been tested.
So-called 'eco-friendly' paper straws could be as bad for the environment as plastic ones.
Belgian researchers tested 39 brands of straws and found some contain long-lasting and potentially toxic chemicals.
They were detected in the majority of the straws but were most common in those made from paper and bamboo.
The substances break down very slowly and can persist over thousands of years leading to them being called 'forever chemicals.'
Offaly Woman 'Shocked And Emotional' After Traveller Pride Award Win
She was recognised last week.
Visitor Centre And Green Gym Set To Be Developed At 'Bog Beach'
The local authority launched a 10-year strategy for the area.
Event In Laois To Pull 85 Tonnes In Aid Of Autism Charity
Anyone wanting to attend, or take part, can do so this Sunday.
First Millennial To Become A Saint - "God's Influencer"
The 15 year old passed away in 2006.
Retro Cannonball Coming to Westmeath
The classic car show will arrive in Mullingar for the finish line.
Preparations Underway for Laois Music Festival
The Cult, Sharron Shannon and Dexys Midnight Runners will be headlining the festival
Laois Man in Amazon Prime Documentary
Mick Lynch provided David Beckham's Production Company with vital footage.
Westmeath Marina Awarded Blue Flag
Over 90 sites across Ireland received the honour this year.
Plans Being Made For This Year's Pride Celebration In Laois
The main event will be held at the beginning of September.
Over €20,000 Raised For Midlands Oncology Unit
An event was held in Offaly over the weekend.
Laois Lotto Winner Comes Forward To Claim €500,000
They won the EuroMillions Top Prize from Tuesday.
Laois Lotto Player Scoops €500k
Players are being asked to check their tickets carefully.
Defence Forces Veterans Marching Through Midlands For Charity
They'll trek through Westmeath today.
Westmeath PI Pens Book On Investigating Adrian Donohoe's Murder
The Detective Garda was murdered in 2013.
Westmeath 'Friendship Club' Aims To Tackle Loneliness
It's been in operation for nearly 30 years, and is asking people to reach out.
Offaly Band Preparing for US Tour
Jigjam are preparing to set off to America yet again bringing their music to the Grand Ole Oprey and Dollywood.
Laois Tidy Towns Committee Seeking Alien Artist
The murals have been popping up for over a year.
'Distressed' Swan Rescued By Athlone Sub Aqua Club
She's since been released back into the Shannon.
Midlands 103 'Gift Of Hope' Winners Welcome Baby Noah To The World
They won the competition early last year.
Much-Needed Medication For Westmeath Girl With Epilepsy Costing €1k Weekly
She suffers from a rare form of epilepsy.
