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Indian Journal of Waste Management

Volume  8, Issue 1, January – June 2024, Pages 15-21
 

Original Article

Bottled Up: The Health and Environmental Price of Convenience

Debdip Khan1, Sudatta Banerjee2

1,2 Faculty, Department of Business  Administration, Burdwan Raj College, Burdwan 713104,
West Bengal, India.
 

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DOI: n.a

Abstract

Water, the essence of life, is vital for the existence of all organisms. However, our interaction   with water faces significant challenges. As society progresses, our methods of obtaining and using  water have evolved. We have shifted from natural water sources to the convenience of tap water  and now rely heavily on bottled water. The widespread consumption of bottled water, treated with  reverse osmosis and supplemented with minerals, presents a paradox. Despite being marketed  as healthier, it may lead to mineral deficiencies due to the removal of essential elements like  sodium, potassium, and lithium. The absence of lithium, once known for inducing drowsiness but  now linked to insomnia, is of particular concern. Research has revealed the presence of harmful  microplastics in plastic bottled water, posing health risks. Despite initial health benefits, plastic  bottles have become ubiquitous, harbouring health hazards for users, including celebrities and  travellers. Mismanagement of water resources is evident in water-stressed cities like South Africa   and Bengaluru, emphasizing the need for conservation. To address these challenges, we must shift  our approach. Transitioning to UV filtration, promoting reusable non-plastic bottles, and providing  purified water in refillable glass containers are crucial steps. Failing to act risks worsening health  and environmental issues, underscoring the urgency of embracing change for the well-being of  current and future generations.
 


Keywords : Bottled water; Reverse osmosis; Mineral deficiency; Microplastic contamination; Health risks; Plastic waste; Environmental sustainability.
Corresponding Author : Debdip Khan,