Bottled water has become a popular choice for many people who want to stay hydrated while on-the-go. However, there are several disadvantages to drinking bottled water, both for your health and for the environment. In this blog post, we’ll explore the disadvantages of bottled water and why tap water is a better choice.
- Cost
One of the most obvious disadvantages of bottled water is the cost. While it may seem like a convenient option to grab a bottle of water on-the-go, the cost can quickly add up over time. On the other hand, tap water is much cheaper and readily available in most areas. - Environmental Impact
Bottled water has a significant environmental impact, both in terms of the energy required to manufacture and transport the bottles, and in terms of the waste generated by discarded bottles. In fact, it is estimated that only around 30% of plastic water bottles are recycled, meaning that the majority of them end up in landfills or oceans, where they can take hundreds of years to decompose. In contrast, tap water does not generate any plastic waste and is a much more environmentally-friendly option. - Quality Control
While bottled water companies claim that their water is pure and safe to drink, there have been several instances of contamination and recalls in recent years. In fact, some bottled water has been found to contain levels of contaminants like arsenic and lead that exceed federal safety standards. In contrast, tap water is regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and must meet strict safety standards before it is distributed to consumers. - Lack of Regulation
Unlike tap water, which is heavily regulated by the government, bottled water is not subject to the same regulations. In fact, the FDA does not require bottled water companies to disclose the source of their water, the treatment process used, or any testing results. This lack of regulation means that it can be difficult for consumers to know exactly what they are drinking. - Health Concerns
In addition to the quality control and lack of regulation issues, there are also health concerns associated with drinking bottled water. Plastic bottles can release harmful chemicals into the water, especially when they are exposed to heat or sunlight. Additionally, many bottled water companies add minerals and chemicals to their water to enhance the taste and smell, which can have negative health effects over time.
Conclusion In conclusion, while bottled water may seem like a convenient option, there are several disadvantages associated with it. From the cost to the environmental impact, the lack of regulation, and the potential health concerns, tap water is a better choice for both your health and the environment. By using a reusable water bottle and filling it with tap water, you can save money, reduce your environmental impact, and ensure that you are drinking safe and clean water.