Bottled water trend
Bottled water is becoming the “trend” as it is now the fastest growing segment of the beverage industry in the world. Sales in the United States alone are as high as $7.7 billion annually.
In my opinion, tap water tastes just as good. I don’t mind drinking city water or well water. Heck, I even drank water from Costa Rica and I’m still standing.
Anyway, bottled water is convenient. I get it. I bring one to the gym, long trips or whenever I’m active outdoors to keep me hydrated. But it can get expensive. We are also fortunate enough to have a running water supply unlike other places in this world. Yet, the privilege is ignored.
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Municipal water systems are tested for contaminants regulated by federal and state standards, such as microbial pathogens, radioactive elements and organic/inorganic toxic chemicals. On the other hand, if your water supply is a private well, you alone are responsible for assuring that it is safe.
The EPA also helps protect the water you are drinking by regulating agricultural use around certain water sources. For example, fertilizers and pesticides are monitored on farms. Water sources, such as lakes and rivers, benefit from agricultural land. In fact, organic material and infiltration of water is increased and erosion and run-off is reduced.
So for the trendy ones out there, don’t assume all tap water is poisoned. Besides the pretty blue label, there is not much of a difference between most tap and bottled water.
Instead of spending fortunes on Crystal Springs invest in a Brita filter. Why waste money when the resource is at your fingertips?
In reality, paying for spring water may taste better to the consumer but it’s leaving a bitter taste on the environment.
Dena Amato
York College of Pa.
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