Waste Not, Want Not
As you are already most likely aware, the water sold in water bottles is basically tap water and costs more than gas. If that isn’t enough to wean you from relying on water bottles, consider the negative environmental impacts bottled water generates including:
- bottle production energy and waste,
- energy for transportation of bottles,
- post-consumer waste (with less than 20% getting recycled even in areas with curbside recycling), and
- potential life-threatening dangers to water-based animals creatures.
In addition to the lack of regulation of bottled water, there is the concern that it takes away from public water systems resulting in the commodification of water.
Collapsible Reusable Water Bottles
In my search for a reusable water bottle, I came across collapsible water bottles. These types water bottles appealed to me because of their increased portability; they are lighter than conventional water bottles and take little space once they are empty. Currently, there are two companies offering collapsible water bottles: Platypus and Evernew. Evernew comes in four sizes: 600ml, 900ml, 1.5L, 2L with an attached screw top, which helps in preventing the loss of the cap. The PlatyBottle comes in three sizes: .5L, 1L and 2L and is available with a sport pull top or screw top. Both products offer insulated carrying cases. The Platypus brand is more readily available (not surprising since Platypus is a US based company, while Evernew is based in Japan). As a result, I purchased the 1L PlatyBottle with a sports top.
The PlatyBottle can be multi-purposed. Because it can be frozen or boiled, it can be used as an ice pack or hot water bottle. For long trips, one can freeze water to have the water stay cold longer. Then, you can place the frozen water in a cooler as an ice pack ; increasing the available space in the cooler by eliminating the need for ice or a conventional ice pack. Its multiple uses are ideal for those looking to simplify and reduce.
Personally, the improved portability is ideal since I bike to sports-related destinations. As advertised, the Platypus does not add any flavors/taste to the water. A reviewer mentioned that it was convenient for bringing through airport security and then filling with water. Unfortunately, in my experience the water that comes out of the airport water fountains can be unpalatable and rather revolting. Generally, I prefer my water cold and fill it with chilled water filtered through a Brita pitcher.
Resources:
Food & Water Watch, Bottled Water Facts
Breaking the Bottled Water Habit, USA Today
