The Observer, September 7, 2007
Volume XL, Issue 2
Global Scorning: Bottled water ban would show concern for environment, save money
Bottled water is an incredibly convenient and satisfying concept: for about $1 you can buy the ultimate thirst quencher.
However, the simple transportation and distribution of bottled water produces enormous amounts of pollution and wastes valuable natural resources. Delivery trucks emit tons of harmful carbon dioxide and consume gallons upon gallons of fuel each year.
Developing plastic for water bottles is also a significant contributor to consumption and waste. This waste must be disposed of in some way, usually in mountainous landfills – hopefully in recycling plants.
In addition, obtaining the water to be bottled has a huge environmental impact. Corporations use water from various sources all over the world to adhere to their guarantee that their water is "mountain fresh" or "pure" water. Meanwhile, water is growing scarce as temperatures rise and less rainfall occurs. The environment needs natural water sources more than consumers need them.
The effects of the bottled water industry put a huge dent in our economy. Air pollution is a problem that businesses and everyone else in society must deal with. Businesses will also have to deal with extra waste resulting from the use of bottled water.
Case Western Reserve University is one of many nonprofit organizations to suffer due to the bottled water industry. Refreshments, including bottled water, are almost always provided at university events and activities. Offering bottled water is extremely wasteful and inefficient considering how easy and inexpensive it would be to provide tap water for attendees.
This past June, San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom banned the unnecessary use of bottled water by city officials in an attempt to cut down on waste and cost – a forward way of thinking that Case should consider. A bottled water ban for students, faculty, and staff would demonstrate a serious concern for the environment and would save money both in terms of unnecessary purchases and waste disposal.
Case can lead the way for universities nationwide with a radical and alternative plan to detach itself from wasteful practices. As Mayor Newsom said in a recent interview with Newsweek magazine, "…the difference between bottled water and Diet Coke is that you can't get Diet Coke from the tap." We should follow his example and take full advantage of the free, quality, less-polluting tap water available everywhere on campus.
Michelle Udem is a second-year economics and environmental studies major and is an avid supporter of alternative energy.
