This is by design. Paper straws are meant to distract your limited focus from things that actually matter.

Alternately, there are a lot of things we can improve, and doing something small that's easily accomplished gets something done now, increases visibility, and add momentum to do bigger things. I know some states are banning (or limiting) plastic bags now.

Does that solve the big problems of container ships burning bunker fuel, oil wells leaking methane, and the huge amounts of plastic caused by drink companies? No, but it definitely makes them look worse, and adds pressure to help make bigger change.