According to increasing amounts of research, bottled water’s impact is proving costly in more ways than one.
One report, released by the Worldwatch Institute(USA) notes that excessive withdrawal from natural springs is threatening local streams and groundwater, and the production and shipping of bottled water consumes large amounts of energy giving it a significant carbon imprint. Additionally, millions of tons of oil-derived plastics, mostly polyethylene terephthalate (PET), are used to make the water bottles, most of which are not recycled, with about 2 million tons of PET bottles ending up in landfills each year in the United States alone.
Simple ways we can make a difference include:
- Install a water filter at the source (kitchen taps at home or at the office, or freestanding water chillers at the office).
- Contact us for advice on the best water filter system to suit your needs – 1300 669 119
- Refill your water bottle at the tap rather than buying a new one.
- Buy large size containers (2 litres) for juices, soda, and water, rather than single serving sizes.
- If you have a choice, buy beverages in refillable (rather than single use) recyclable bottles.
- Recycle! Don’t throw away your bottles – use recycling bins found in public places like malls or airports, and always recycle at home.
- If there’s no recycling program in your workplace or apartment building, organise one.