You might not think twice about grabbing a plastic water bottle when you’re feeling thirsty. After all, it’s just water, right? Wrong. There are actually a lot of dangers of plastic water bottles. Here’s a look at some of the most significant dangers of plastic water bottles and why you should avoid them if at all possible.
Dangers of Plastic Water Bottles
Danger #1: They’re Made with BPA
BPA stands for bisphenol A, and it’s a chemical that’s used in the production of many plastics. Unfortunately, BPA has been linked to a whole host of health problems, including cancer, fertility issues, birth defects, and more. If you’re pregnant or even thinking about getting pregnant, it’s especially important to avoid BPA since it can cause problems for developing babies.
Phthalates are another class of chemicals commonly used in plastics. They’re added to increase flexibility and durability. Like BPA, phthalates are endocrine disruptors and have been linked to numerous health problems. Studies have shown that phthalates can interfere with reproductive development and increase the risk of certain cancers.
These aren’t the only dangerous chemicals found in plastic water bottles. Antimony is a metalloid element that is used as a stabilizer in polyethylene terephthalate (PET), the most common type of plastic used for water bottles. Studies have shown that antimony can leach out of PET containers and into the water they contain. Some research suggests that long-term exposure to antimony may lead to negative health effects, including cancer and lung irritation.
Danger #2: They’re Not Biodegradable
Plastic water bottles are not biodegradable, which means they’ll sit in landfills for centuries after you’ve finished drinking from them. In fact, it’s estimated that by 2050, there will be more plastic in landfills than fish in the ocean. Not only does this take up valuable space, but it’s also terrible for the environment. Each year, millions of animals die after ingesting or getting entangled in plastic waste.
Danger #3: They’re Bad for Your Health
When water is stored in plastic bottles for long periods of time, chemicals from the plastic can actually leach into the water. This means that you could be exposing yourself to harmful chemicals every time you take a sip from a plastic water bottle. These chemicals have been linked to everything from cancer to neurological disorders.
Given the dangers posed by plastic water bottles, it’s clear that we need to find a better way to stay hydrated. There are plenty of options available, including Insulated Reusable Water Bottles or glass water bottles. These alternatives are not only better for your health; they’re also better for the environment. So next time you reach for a plastic water bottle, think twice and choose something else instead. Grab all the most wanted varieties from Nanobot.
