Plastic vs. Glass

Our public health issue is the use of plastic water bottles. We chose to put our “this is public health” sticker in a Starbucks because they sell glass cups and water bottles-a healthier alternative to plastic water bottles. Everyone loves the convenience and eco-friendliness of a reusable plastic water bottle, but how safe are they to drink from? Studies have shown that bisphenol A (BPA) can be dangerous for children. While there is no conclusive evidence, many parents are switching to BPA-free plastic bottles to avoid any side effects from BPA. As for disposable plastic bottles, the chemical polyethylene terephthalate (PET) can increase bacteria levels. If the bottle is reused and isn’t washed between uses, an accumulation of bacteria from the hands and mouth of the user is formed. If exposed to heat or frequent handling, water bottles that contain PET can also leach chemicals into the beverage that is kept in the bottle. A great alternative to plastic bottles are glass bottles, which we found in several different forms at our local Starbucks coffee shop. Glass bottles are safer because they don’t contain chemicals like BPA and PET and they are cleaner in that they don’t collect bacteria as easily as plastic. Another non-plastic option is stainless steel bottles which are more durable than glass and offer the same health benefits. Glass bottles are also more expensive than their plastic counterparts but if you are careful not to break them they may last longer and remain safe to use for longer. If you do choose to use disposable plastic water bottles, do not subject them to extreme heat or reuse them an excessive number of times. If you use reusable plastic water bottles, keep them clean by washing them frequently with antibacterial soap.   

--Ana, Amanda, Aklil and Courtney

Information from

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/08/21/AR2007082102029_2.html

http://greenliving.nationalgeographic.com/can-reuse-plastic-water-bottle-over-over-2311.html