Susan Wineland
Orange Recycling Committee
Lots of research has gone into what’s inside bottled water, and the conclusion of most studies is that it’s not just water. A review published in the Journal of Hazardous Materials found that people who drink from single-use plastic bottles may swallow up to 90,000 more microplastic particles each year than those who drink tap water. These particles contain phthalates, bisphenols and other toxicants.
Researchers have analyzed results from more than a hundred studies on microplastics and found that bottled water often contains thousands of microscopic fragments released from the plastic containers themselves. These particles are so small that they can travel through the bloodstream, collect in organs, and even cross the blood-brain barrier.
Scientists have linked micro- and nanoplastics to inflammation, hormone disruption and cardiovascular and neurological problems. While researchers continue to study the long-term health effects, the evidence so far suggests that plastic exposure, even in small amounts, may affect the body’s immune and metabolic systems.
Plastic leaches into water throughout the bottling and handling process, during manufacturing, from cap friction when bottles are opened, and when bottles are squeezed or exposed to sunlight and heat. The more a bottle is used or stored in hot conditions, the more plastic tends to shed. One recent study found roughly 240,000 detectable plastic pieces in a typical liter of bottled water.
An important goal of the Nature Conservancy and the Long Island Sound Coastal Watershed Network is to reduce plastic water bottle pollution in our environment.
Every individual can make a direct impact in reducing pollution going into Long Island Sound,” said Justin Susaric Conservation Project Manager at the Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk. “One of the best and easiest ways you can make a change is by reducing your usage of single-use plastics. It’s as simple as switching to a reusable water bottle.”
Experts also recommend not using single-use bottles or any large plastic containers from water dispensers and water coolers. We are much better off using tap water and choosing one of the many reusable and portable options made from non-plastic materials, both economically and health-wise. Stainless steel and glass are considered the safest choices, as they don’t leach harmful chemicals.
Local stores and online retailers offer reliable reusables including stainless steel bottles from such popular brands as Klean Kanteen, Hydro Flask and Yeti. When shopping, look for 18/8 (or 304) stainless steel as it’s the most popular and safest food-grade stainless steel for water bottles. It contains about 18 percent chromium and 8 percent nickel, making it resistant to corrosion and safe for food and beverages. Those who are sensitive to nickel can look for bottles made from 403 stainless steel, which is nickel-free. W&P Porter bottles have ceramic coated interiors.
Another healthy choice is glass bottles with popular brands such as Lifefactory and Pura, which often feature silicone sleeves for added protection. Lifefactory bottles are made from borosilicate glass, which is resistant to thermal shock, allowing it to go from the freezer to boiling water without shattering. But note that any heat-resistant glass is not recyclable.
Both stainless steel and glass reusables are very durable and can last for a dozen years or more depending on regular cleaning and care. Because stainless steel can’t be crushed, they aren’t recyclable in the blue bins and should be recycled via the company that makes them or used for some other purpose. There are lots of ideas online for upcycling them.
Some water bottle brands may have their own recycling programs. Hydro Flask trade-in is one example. All customers have to do is register their product, print a shipping label, empty the bottle and mail the item within 30 days. Once Hydro Flask receives and recycles the bottle, customers will get $5 towards their next purchase. Stainless steel can also be taken to the scrap metal collection area at the Orange Transfer Station and Recycling Center.
When buying any type of reusable bottle, look for caps and straws that are made from food-grade silicone, bamboo, or stainless steel, since some plastic caps can still contain toxins. The good news is that there are an increasing number of brands with options that completely avoid plastic on the inside. The many different styles and features include different size caps or handles, wide and narrow mouths, straws and grippy silicone sleeves. All are conveniently dishwasher safe.
Though scientists are still uncovering the full impact of microplastics on human health, one thing is clear: limiting exposure by drinking from safer, reusable containers is a simple step we can all take with lasting benefits for both health and the environment.
Susan Wineland is a member of the Orange Recycling Committee.