[JANUARY FREE REPORT]

Bottled water has become a popular choice for many people, with many believing that it is a healthier and more convenient option than tap water. However, this convenience comes with a cost to the environment, as the production and disposal of bottled water can cause significant damage. In this article, we will be exploring the environmental impact of bottled water and what can be done to mitigate it. 

The production of bottled water involves a large number of inputs, such as energy and water, as well as generating plastic waste. According to the World Wildlife Fund, “it takes 3 liters of water to produce 1 liter of bottled water.” Additionally, in order to transport the bottled water to the consumers, the bottles must be shipped, which requires fuel to be burned, leading to greenhouse gas emissions.

Plastic is a major component of bottled water and its production and disposal generate high levels of plastic waste. According to the Guardian, “an estimated 8.3 billion tonnes of plastic has been produced since the 1950s, with 79% of it ending up in landfill or the natural environment.” Moreover, about one million plastic bottles are sold every minute around the world, and many of them are not recycled.

One of the most effective ways to reduce the environmental impact of bottled water is to reduce the production and consumption of bottled water. Consumers can opt for tap water instead, as it has been shown to be as safe and healthy as bottled water. Additionally, many companies have started to use recycled plastic in the production of bottled water, which reduces the amount of plastic waste generated. 

Finally, improving recycling infrastructure and education is key to reducing the environmental impact of bottled water. Governments should create incentives to promote recycling, and companies should provide consumers with information regarding how to properly dispose of the bottles. 

In conclusion, bottled water has an environmental impact due to the production and disposal of plastic bottles. Consumers should opt for tap water instead and governments and companies should take measures to reduce the environmental impact of bottled water.

References

1. “Plastics: What Is the World Doing about It?.” WWF, World Wildlife Fund, www.worldwildlife.org/stories/plastics-what-is-the-world-doing-about-it.