Bottled Water vs. Tap Water: Which is Really Better?

Chile Travel and News | By Raul Silva M.

 

Which is healthier: bottled or tap water?

 A recent study published in BMJ Global Health challenges widespread perceptions of bottled water consumption. Researchers from Weill Cornell Medicine - Qatar and New York Medical College provide an in-depth analysis highlighting its negative impacts on human health and the environment.

How Safe Is Bottled Water?

Contrary to popular belief, the study warns that bottled water is not necessarily safer or healthier than tap water. In many developed countries, the vast majority of drinking water meets strict safety standards. Yet, a significant percentage of people continue to prefer bottled water.

Invisible Contaminants: Microplastics and Chemicals

One of the study's most alarming findings is the presence of microplastics and harmful chemicals, such as phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA), in plastic bottles. These contaminants can have adverse health effects, including oxidative stress and hormonal disruptions. Microplastics in bottled water often originate from the bottles, especially due to manufacturing processes and friction from opening and closing caps.

It should also be noted that, in addition to studies on bottled water, tap water has been found to contain microplastics as well, though in significantly lower concentrations.

Unseen Pollution: The Problem with Plastic Bottles

The study also highlights the environmental pollution caused by millions of improperly discarded plastic bottles. It’s estimated that approximately one million bottles are bought every minute, significantly contributing to waste accumulation in oceans and land ecosystems, with plastic bottles taking up to 450 years to decompose.

A Necessary Change: Reevaluate Our Consumption Habits

Researchers urge people worldwide to reassess their bottled water consumption habits. For those with access to safe drinking water, switching to tap water is not only a viable choice but also a responsible action for both environmental and public health. Considering that plastic bottles can take up to 450 years to decompose, reducing bottled water use can make a significant impact.

Another Consideration: High Cost

The price of bottled water is considerably higher than tap water. In many cases, up to 90% of the cost of bottled water goes towards packaging. This raises an important economic question: tap water can be more affordable and sustainable.

Conclusion:

While bottled water may be necessary in certain situations, such as emergencies or in areas with unsafe tap water, opting for tap water is generally healthier, more sustainable, and cost-effective. A shift away from bottled water could have significant benefits for both public health and the environment.

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Alternatives to Plastic Bottles

1. Reusable Bottles
   Reusable bottles made of materials like glass or stainless steel are popular options. These bottles can be used multiple times and are easy to clean, reducing the need for disposable packaging.

2. Water Dispensers
   Some companies offer dispensers that connect directly to the potable water network, eliminating the need for plastic bottles. This business model allows users to receive purified and remineralized water without generating plastic waste.

3. Edible Bottles
   An interesting innovation is edible bottles, like Ooho!, made from seaweed. This type of packaging is fully biodegradable and can contain liquids like water and soft drinks, providing a zero-waste alternative.

4. Biodegradable Packaging
   Biodegradable packaging made from organic materials, such as coconut or wood pulp, decomposes much faster than conventional plastic, helping to reduce pollution.

5. Water Filters
   Installing filters at home is another viable alternative. Filters can improve tap water quality, removing impurities and enhancing taste, which reduces the need to buy bottled water.

6. Request Tap Water at Restaurants
   More restaurants are offering tap water to customers. Ordering tap water is not only a cost-effective option but also helps decrease the demand for plastic bottles.

7. Water from a sustainable, 100% eco-friendly source
Companies like Chilean AWA Solar offer an alternative to plastic bottles with a sustainable, recyclable canned water solution. AWA Solar’s water is produced using air and solar energy, without depleting surface or underground water sources, making it a 100% eco-friendly option. Once the water is produced, it goes through a system of filters and mineralization.