Bottled water is extremely popular in Australia but is it really necessary? While most single use water bottles sold in supermarkets and retailers are recyclable many still end up in landfill. And even if they do get recycled it’s using up resources and energy to do so. Before we buy that next bottle of water perhaps we need to think twice?
Here’s 6 reasons to say no to bottled water:
1. Bottled water is expensive. The average cost of most bottled water in Australia is $2.75 per litre, meaning we are paying more than 1,000 times the actual cost of it!
2. Tap water in most areas of Australia are of a world standard. Why pay for bottled water when there is something literally on tap that is pretty much free, safe to drink and better for the environment? If you are at all concerned about the quality or don’t like the taste of tap water, filters can be installed.
3. There have been many arguments between bottled and tap water but no proven evidence that bottled water has any further health benefits or is any better for us than tap water.
4. Tap water is more convenient. Where ever you are, there is bound to be a tap so it’s easy to fill up a reusable drink bottle.
5. Although plastic water bottles are recyclable, many do end up in landfill and they can take up to 1,000 years to break down! When littered they often end up in the sea where they break up in small pieces, killing marine life that mistake them for food.
6. Recycling of bottles, while obviously a much better option than sending to landfill (or littering!) still uses energy and resources. Energy is used in the recycling process, filling the bottles, transporting them, refrigerating etc. This can all be avoided by using a reusable drink bottle and filling with tap water.
While we believe single use water bottles can easily be avoided in most cases, other recyclable items may prove more difficult. KS Environmental can help your business out with its recycling systems. Contact us to find out how.
Sources: cleanup.org.au, coolaustralia.org