Revealing the Invisible: The Plastic Predicament in Bottled Water
Bottled water purchased from supermarkets or petrol stations contains approximately 240,000 particles of plastic per litre, according to a recent American study published in the PNAS journal.
Researchers examined three different brands of bottled water for plastic content using a novel detection method that identified extremely tiny particles, known as nanoplastics. These particles can only be detected with highly advanced equipment as they are 1000 times smaller than the diameter of a human hair.
It's challenging to determine whether consuming such a large number of plastic particles is harmful to our health, as there hasn't been enough research conducted on the effects of nanoplastics.
“This study actually opens up a bit of that nanoplastic world," comments Marja Lamoree, Professor of Analytical Chemistry for Environment and Health at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. She has been conducting similar research herself for a while and isn't surprised by the number of 240,000 particles mentioned by the researchers. "It's just the case that you simply see more when you zoom in further, but it does underscore that we're dealing with a very significant issue, much larger than previously believed."
The source of the considerable amount of small plastic particles is still a question. Producers of bottled water might scrutinise their production processes to understand how plastic particles end up in the water. However, plastic is ubiquitous in our surroundings and continuously breaks down into smaller particles like nanoplastics. These plastic particles might have also entered the water through natural degradation.
Currently, the risk associated with consuming bottled water hasn't been adequately assessed. However, considering the situation, opting for tap water might be a safer choice.
Integrating filtered water taps into our homes and offices presents a compelling alternative to bottled water. These taps offer a sustainable and environmentally friendly solution, reducing the reliance on single-use plastic bottles. Beyond environmental benefits, water taps provide convenience and efficiency, offering instant access to both chilled and boiling water, eliminating the need for storage or refrigeration. With their filtration systems, they ensure a constant supply of clean, pure water, promoting healthier hydration practices. Choosing water taps not only minimises plastic waste but also contributes to a more streamlined and accessible water consumption experience for households and workplaces alike.
Upgrade your office today with Hotspot Titanium's range of filtered taps! Say goodbye to plastic bottles and embrace sustainable hydration solutions tailored for every workspace.
Consult one of our specialists to create a thorough plan to provide your office with sufficient on and off the sink hydration points. Join the movement of optimally hydrated employees in a bottle-free environment!
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