Because of the incessant use of plastics over the last 50 years, we are now facing an enduring ecological problem that continues to ruin our environment and natural resources. As the saying goes, plastic is forever. At the rate plastic products are being used, this could very well be true.
Switching to reusable water bottles can be a great first step in the journey to reducing our plastic footprint. By making the switch to reusable water bottles, you are taking a real stand against the problem of plastic water bottles and helping to protect your health, the environment and the health of those around you. Here's how reusable bottles can be used toward helping solve the plastic problem that we have today.
How Does Plastic Harm the Environment?
Plastics contain non-biodegradable materials that are not safe for the environment. They do not break down like natural materials and will remain in the environment for hundreds of years. Even when plastics do break down, they remain as tiny plastic particles that are ingested by animals and humans.
When consumed by marine life, animals and birds, plastics cause endocrine disruption, reproductive problems, feeding difficulties, hearing and neurological impairment and digestive tract punctures.
With the production of plastic comes the proliferation of waste. When the plastic is no longer used, after its short life span, it ends up as trash. From there, it takes a long and often circuitous route back to our environment.
Where Does Plastic Waste Go?
It is estimated that less than 10% of plastic is recycled. The rest is either incinerated or ends up in landfills, on the ground or in our waters.
In our water, the plastic particles can enter the food chain and get consumed by marine life, who mistake the plastic for food. We are then consuming these animals without knowing it.
If you look at landfills, the plastic leeches into the groundwater. Plastic does not degrade significantly, but it does break down into smaller and smaller pieces over time. This, along with the degradation of other organic matter, leeches toxins and poisons into the groundwater and then into the water table.
How Can Reusable Water Bottles Help Solve the Problem?
The best way to reduce the amount of plastic in your life is to eliminate it altogether, but that is not the most realistic solution for everyone. The next best thing is to reduce plastic use as much as possible. The easiest way to do this is to reduce the use of plastics, especially when it comes to water.
By switching to reusable water bottles, you can eliminate the need for single-use plastic water bottles. The reusable plastic bottles and some glass water bottles can be recycled if they are to be recycled. If you are looking to make a difference, reusable plastic bottles are a good place to start.
What's the Difference?
Plastic water bottles have a finite life span, but when you use a reusable bottle, it will last for as long as you wish. You can have peace of mind when you use reusable bottles.
Reusable bottles are an investment that you can use for the rest of your life. They can completely replace the need for other plastic items. Yes, this also applies to other reusable containers that can take the place of plastic products.
Reusable Bottles are the Best for the Environment
By using reusable water bottles, you can significantly reduce, if not eliminate, the amount of plastic in the world. Imagine how many plastic bottles are used in one year. If you think that number is staggering, you are correct. So much plastic is used in the production of water bottles, and so few are reused.
Even after the initial investment, reusable bottles save you money in the long run. You will recoup your investment in a matter of weeks. When you think about the long run, a reusable bottle is an amazing value. You save so much money long term that the upfront cost is worth it.
Conclusion
It is never too soon to start reducing the amount of plastic in your life. Plastic is a problem that the world is facing, but it is not the ultimate solution. Reusable bottles are a great way to eliminate the need for plastic bottles. So, why wait? Start right now!
If you want to take part in protecting the environment, then switching to reusable water bottles is the way to go. Ecobud® gives you the opportunity to do this through our eco-friendly and durable glass and stainless steel water bottles. A single ecobud® reusable water bottle will reduce your carbon footprint and help you stay hydrated at all times. Check out our collection of reusable water bottles and water purification systems to order.