Bring a Reusable Water Bottle
Did you know that 25 million tons of plastic waste end up in the ocean every year? If we continue at this rate, there will be more plastic than fish in the oceans by 2050. Plastic bottles make up a huge amount of this ocean trash, so let’s kick the single-use plastic bottle habit and protect our planet (and the fish!) from pollution.
Your Impact
Action Steps & Tips
Introduction
It seems odd that we use something for 5 minutes that lasts in our oceans for hundreds of years if there is an alternative. It’s also expensive - a plastic water bottle that costs about $1.50 only contains about 4 cents worth of water!
Using a reusable water bottle is easy, can save you a lot of money over time, and will help protect our oceans and the environment.
1Choose your reusable bottle
Choose the bottle that works for you. Reusable water bottles come in many sizes, colors and styles. Water bottles have evolved, and many are now surprisingly lightweight and insulating - keeping your drink refreshingly cold or cozily hot. Choose one or two that you’ll be happy to bring everywhere. The right water bottle can be a major upgrade!
Choose a BPA-free bottle. Many cheap plastics (including single-use water bottles) contain the chemical BPA, which can cause fertility problems, heart disease and other health issues. Make sure you choose a bottle marked “BPA free.”
Consider a water filter for your home. Some people drink bottled water because they don’t like tap water. If this is an issue for you, consider investing in a water filter. You can get low cost filters that fit directly onto your faucets or a filtered pitcher, so you’ll always have a supply of clean, fresh water.
2Remember your reusable bottle and more tips!
Bring your bottle with you. Make a habit of filling up your reusable bottle and bringing it with you to work, school, the gym, and other outings. Best of all, you can easily refill it in many public places or even in a restaurant - just ask your server for a refill!
Use your bottle for more than just water. Bring your reusable bottle with you and use it for soda, ice tea or other drinks on the go. Many restaurants and cafes will allow you to use your own bottle, and some might even give you a discount!
Make your own soda. If you love carbonated drinks, instead of buying them in plastic bottles, consider purchasing a machine to make soda at home. You’ll reduce your plastic waste, and if you reduce the sugar you add, it is also a healthier option!
Enjoy staying hydrated, and thanks for keeping our planet healthy!