Bottled Water Industry Ethics

Water is an indispensable resource that all living organisms, including humans, depend on for survival. As environmental realities become more pressing, it is anticipated that our behavior regarding resource utilization will need to adapt, particularly in relation to water consumption (Earle, 2009). This essay explores the implications of water resource privatization and the bottled water industry's impact, with a particular focus on the University of Bentley. It argues for a shift towards sustainable practices, emphasizing the need for educational initiatives and infrastructural changes to encourage the use of reusable water bottles.

The Bottled Water Dilemma

In 2016, the University of Bentley recorded the purchase of approximately 500,000 disposable water bottles. This statistic underscores the urgency of reducing reliance on single-use plastics to foster a more sustainable campus environment. The proliferation of bottled water has sparked significant debate in Western societies, highlighting issues of waste and environmental degradation. The privatization of water resources and the commercialization of bottled water have led to significant ecological and health concerns, which necessitate immediate action.

Understanding Water Consumption Behavior

The primary aim of this initiative was to comprehend the factors influencing students' preference for bottled water over reusable alternatives and to devise strategies to promote sustainable practices. Observations from neighboring institutions that successfully eliminated disposable plastic bottles provided a blueprint for similar initiatives at the University of Bentley. Engaging with university leadership and food service providers is crucial in transitioning to reusable water bottles and reducing single-use plastic dependency.

Environmental and Health Implications

Extensive literature highlights the negative impact of the bottled water industry on both the environment and public health. Toxic substances such as styrene and benzene are often found in disposable water bottles, posing significant health risks. Furthermore, the production and disposal of these bottles contribute to pollution and resource depletion. According to Leonard Sax (2009), chemicals such as phthalates and antimony can leach into bottled water, particularly under high-temperature conditions, exacerbating health risks.

Production and Environmental Cost

The production of bottled water is resource-intensive, consuming significant amounts of energy, petroleum, and natural gas. In 2010, the energy required for bottled water production in the U.S. was estimated to be up to 2,000 times that of tap water. The manufacturing process involves refining petroleum and natural gas into polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastics, releasing harmful emissions into the atmosphere. These emissions contribute to climate change and pose health hazards to communities near production facilities.

Survey Insights and Behavioral Shifts

A survey conducted among 140 University of Bentley students and staff revealed insights into bottled water consumption patterns. A majority of participants supported a ban on bottled water, citing environmental concerns and the convenience of reusable bottles. However, barriers such as the availability of water refilling stations and the convenience of carrying reusable bottles were noted. These findings highlight the need for targeted educational campaigns and infrastructural improvements to facilitate the transition to sustainable practices.

Recommendations for Sustainable Practices

To achieve a sustainable water consumption model at the University of Bentley, several recommendations are proposed. Establishing more water refilling stations across campus and integrating water conservation education into student orientation programs are critical steps. Providing free reusable water bottles to students and staff can further reinforce sustainable habits. Moreover, ongoing research to understand student preferences for reusable bottle designs will ensure the effectiveness of these initiatives.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the shift towards banning disposable bottled water at the University of Bentley is both feasible and necessary for advancing campus sustainability. The environmental and health costs associated with bottled water consumption are significant, and addressing these issues requires a concerted effort from all university stakeholders. By implementing the recommended strategies, the University of Bentley can lead by example, fostering a culture of environmental responsibility and sustainability.

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