NEW YORK — Legislation limiting the use of plastic straws in the city officially went into effect Monday.

Restaurants, bars and other establishments can now only provide plastic straws upon request.

However, businesses can continue to offer customers straws made of compost-friendly materials like paper, bamboo and agave.

Plastic stirrers and splash guards, like those offered at Starbucks, are banned completely.

It's part of an effort approved by the City Council to reduce waste and could save businesses at least $3,000 per year. 

If the customer asks for a plastic straw, businesses are required to provide one free of charge, no questions asked.