Drinking water from beautifully-designed and packaged bottles might be touted as coming from ‘pure springs’ and with ‘added minerals’. However, minerals may not be the only thing you add to your consumption! According to a new research, approximately a quarter of a million invisible particles of microscopic nanoplastics is said to be found in an average litre of bottled water!
Although the presence of tiny plastic particles in bottled water was always acknowledged, we weren’t aware about the precise quantity and kind of particles present until researchers from Columbia University and Rutgers University did the math. According to a study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, there are between 1,10,000 and 4,00,000 plastic particles per litre, and on average being 2,40,000.
The different sizes, shapes, and distribution of the plastics in bottled water revealed their origins to the researchers. Shreds of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), for instance, looked bulky and micrometer-sized. They might have originated from the bottles themselves, since PET is a common material used in the production of bottles. The smaller nanoparticles were most likely released into the environment in the early phases of the bottling process. Processing could have caused them to break down even more into smaller pieces. Also discovered by the researchers were polyamide and polystyrene polymers. Ironically, the most typical application for them is as membrane materials in treatment schemes for water filtration.
Here are a few simple ways to avoid drinking from plastic bottles.
Invest in a water bottle that can be reused
Purchasing a reusable water bottle is one of the simplest methods to cut down the number of plastic water bottles you use. Reusable water bottles are lightweight, easy on the pocket and portable. Use bottles made from glass, copper or food-grade stainless steel. These materials are extremely robust, easy to clean, and non-toxic.
Carry your own bottle
It’s a great habit to always carry a bottle of water with you whenever you leave home. This way, you can hydrate when thirsty and avoid buying packaged plastic water bottles as well. It’s a win for the environment and pocket-friendly too.
Say ‘no’ to plastic water bottles
At various venues or events like marriage halls, community functions and conferences, learn to turn down offers of bottled water. Instead, drink water from your own bottle. In case you’re hosting an event or function, stick to serving your guests water from pitchers, tumblers or dispensers made from other materials.
Supporting businesses that work towards plastic usage
Supporting businesses that focus on reducing plastic usage can really boost the movement. When selecting a restaurant, café or hotel, look for establishments that provide purified tap water or water in reusable glasses or bottles. You can also encourage businesses that provide discounts or free refills to customers with reusable water bottles.