[Source: Think Outside In]
California is one of the states that recently got hit with a big heat wave and people are bringing out the swimsuits, ice cream, and coolers usually filled with icy plastic water bottles. Water is essential for escaping the summer heat, and many people do not seem to consider the damages of drinking from bottled waters.
Bottled water was originally popularized in the 19th century when bottled water was seen as healthy and pure while tap water was seen as dirty and unsafe. Although the past few centuries led to filtered tap water that is safe to consume, many people still think that bottled water is overall better. Americans, according to Ban the Bottle states that Americans use about 50 billion plastic bottled waters but the U.S. recycling rate is only 23%. This means that tons of plastic is thrown away, leading to pollution and energy waste. If people continue to use plastic at this alarming rate, it will not be long until we see lasting negative effects in our world.
Although plastic bottled waters are still frequently used by Americans, there are ways for us to reduce this spending: by using reusable water bottles. Although you have probably heard this before, it is very beneficial to have and use your own personal bottle. Buying a good quality water bottle may seem pricey at first, up to 20-30 dollars, you will only spend about 19 cents a day to get the daily amount of water. This is extremely cheap compared to buying 3-4 bottled waters averaging from 1-4 dollars daily, leading to $4.98 a day. So in the end, investing in that one reusable bottle can save a lot of money.
People may argue that bottled water is safer and that they prefer the taste of some bottled water companies’ water, but buying a water filter for your water can solve these issues and can change the taste of the water. Converting fully to reusable water bottles is the best solution but it might not be feasible immediately. To help ease into this transition, it is helpful to always recycle when you do use any plastic and to think more eco-friendly when buying certain things. With the help of even a few people, this action can truly start a change.
Erin Song, Grade 12
Academy of the Canyons
