Reusable Water Bottles

Considering the somewhat recent scare over BPA (bisphenol A) and reusable water bottles, I thought I’d share some research I conducted during my time at CHEJ on where to find alternative, BPA-free and other toxic free, water bottles.

Firstly, I need to emphasize the importance of using a reusable bottle rather than a disposable plastic bottle. So here’s a trivia question: how long does it take your plastic soda bottle to decompose when thrown in a landfill?

The only answer most sources agree on is: a very, very long time. Some estimate a few hundred years, some estimate 1,000 years, some estimate even longer.

So, you recycle? Well recycling isn’t totally 100% efficient, and what if you recycle but that recycling bin actually is just emptied into the trash? I’m sure it’s been done before… You might have more piece of mind that you recycled the bottle, but regardless, it’s now going to be sitting in the landfill for longer than your lifetime.

In addition to the environmental aspect of the water bottles, what about the problems with plastic? Plastics are scary, man. It seems that every few years some scientist publishes news that another type of plastic we use every day is actually toxic. What if tomorrow they say the coke bottle plastic is toxic?

How about just getting a stylish, reusable bottle you can carry with you and refill at any tap, soda fountain, or water fountain? Here are some good options:

California Innovations bottle with insulated wrap (also PVC-free), $7, www.californiainnovations.com

Greenfeet stainless steel bottle, $11, www.greenfeet.com

iPlay Baby Wear aqua bottles, $16, www.iplaybabywear.com

Kleen Kanteen stainless steel bottles, $15-$26, www.kleenkanteen.com

Nalgene steel or plastic bottles (new bottles only), $7-$26, www.nalgene-outdoor.com

Sigg aluminum bottles, $18-$29, www.mysigg.com

TIP: If it does not say “BPA-free” anywhere, don’t buy it!

These examples of BPA free bottles are just some of the most common, but this list is not comprehensive! There are probably many types on the shelf at the store- just go look and find the “BPA-free” label, and you’re good to go! If you get a reusable bottle, congratulations, and know that this small deed is making a difference!