Green Technology

The ubiquitous plastic bottle of water is everywhere. 

While there are many questions about the relative merits of tap vs. bottled water such as taste, quality, etc. there are the facts that bottled water can have a significant impact on the environment:

- the petrochemicals used to make plastic bottles
- the energy used for transport; sometime across the world
- the remaining waste if not recycled.
- the depletion of local water supplies

Granted; some areas have better water than others and plastic bottles are handy (and safe) to use while traveling) but .... some major cities like Philadelphia and New York are quite proud of the taste and quality of their tap water ....  

"The City of New York is trying to persuade its people to give up bottled drinks and consume tap water instead to help protect the environment."

"City officials say their campaign will save people money, and reduce waste."

"According to environmental groups, four out of five plastic water bottles end up on landfill sites and the production process contributes to global warming. ... Distribution process sometimes involves shipping water halfway around the world."

"But the Bottled Water Association says it is unfair to single out an industry that is promoting recycling and introducing biodegradable packaging."

Via:  BBC News   Link