Reusable Water Bottles
The Environmental Impact
Every year the United States goes through 29 billion plastic water bottles, and only a small fraction ever reach the recycling bin. Instead they are thrown in the trash where they add 1.5 million tons of waste to the growing problem. Producing and shipping these bottles uses up 17 million barrels of crude oil annually, adding to their harmful impact on the environment. Reusable water bottles are an easy, environmentally friendly alternative to plastic. Using a reusable bottle saves 14 pounds of plastic from entering landfills every year, and saves you around 200 dollars.
Choosing A Reusable Water Bottle
When choosing a bottle to buy look for one that is BPA free, stainless steel is a good choice. They can cost anywhere between 5 dollars and 25 dollars, and can be found at your local grocery stores, shopping centers, coffee shops and online. Check out Kleen Kanteen where you can customize your own!
Taste & Safety of Tap Water
Taste and safety are both factors that influence consumers to buy bottled water. The United States monitors levels of contaminants and the safety of tap water. Every year you should receive a report from your local water supplier of where your water comes from and what is in it. To get a full list of contaminants and their concentrations visit the Environmental Protection Agencies website water.epa.gov/drink/local. If you find it necessary buy a tap water filter to avoid any contaminants. Taste is obviously a personal preference, but in blind taste tests many consumers can’t tell the difference between bottled water and tap water. Making the switch to reusable bottles calls for a small change that makes a big difference!
Tips
Every year the United States goes through 29 billion plastic water bottles, and only a small fraction ever reach the recycling bin. Instead they are thrown in the trash where they add 1.5 million tons of waste to the growing problem. Producing and shipping these bottles uses up 17 million barrels of crude oil annually, adding to their harmful impact on the environment. Reusable water bottles are an easy, environmentally friendly alternative to plastic. Using a reusable bottle saves 14 pounds of plastic from entering landfills every year, and saves you around 200 dollars.
Choosing A Reusable Water Bottle
When choosing a bottle to buy look for one that is BPA free, stainless steel is a good choice. They can cost anywhere between 5 dollars and 25 dollars, and can be found at your local grocery stores, shopping centers, coffee shops and online. Check out Kleen Kanteen where you can customize your own!
Taste & Safety of Tap Water
Taste and safety are both factors that influence consumers to buy bottled water. The United States monitors levels of contaminants and the safety of tap water. Every year you should receive a report from your local water supplier of where your water comes from and what is in it. To get a full list of contaminants and their concentrations visit the Environmental Protection Agencies website water.epa.gov/drink/local. If you find it necessary buy a tap water filter to avoid any contaminants. Taste is obviously a personal preference, but in blind taste tests many consumers can’t tell the difference between bottled water and tap water. Making the switch to reusable bottles calls for a small change that makes a big difference!
Tips
- Fill your bottle up the night before so its ready to go when you are
- Wash it after use to avoid mold and bacteria build up
- Use your reusable bottle to fill up at your favorite coffee shop