How can we minimize PET bottle negative impact?

It is commonly known that disposable bottles negatively impact the environment. However, their use remains shockingly high in Japan due to their convenience. According to a survey, 25.4 billion PET bottles were sold in 2022.

Environmental burden of PET bottles

• A myriad of fossil fuel-based bottles are still produced, contributing to global warming.
• They are nearly impossible to fully recycle; thus, they often end up as waste.
• Ultimately, these bottles are intended to be discarded.

Although innovations toward zero waste of PET bottles are underway, the problems persist as long as they are not fully collected and recycled. Instead of relying on PET bottles, bringing our own bottles to refill is the most effective way to be kind to our planet.

Enjoy refilling water with reusable bottles

You might wonder how to find spots to refill water. One of the best ways is to use an app called mymizu. They report having more than 200,000 users worldwide and about 2,500 business partners, introducing 205,000 spots globally where you can refill reusable water bottles. The list includes a wide variety of spots, from drinking fountains to shops, restaurants, and hotels.

If you discover new refill stations, simply add them to the app or introduce the app to your favorite café to support others in finding refill spots.

Benefits of PET bottles

On the other hand, PET bottles have some benefits as well, which is why we can’t stop using them.

• They are light and durable, saving on environmental costs compared to glass bottles during delivery.
• The technology to recycle PET bottles is well-established.

One of Japan’s primary beverage companies, Asahi Soft Drinks Co., Ltd., aims to enable all disposable bottles produced by the company to be recycled by 2030. They focus on producing PET bottles made from recycled materials (recycled synthetic or natural resins).

Another renowned company, Suntory Holdings Limited, has collaborated with a US-based chemistry venture to innovate 100% plant-based bottles. Their next target is to use eco-friendly bottles worldwide, aiming to switch all PET bottles globally to recycled or plant-based materials by 2030, eliminating the need for new fossil fuel-derived products.

If you must use PET bottles, choose eco-friendly ones like those mentioned above and recycle them properly.

Make a conscious choice for the planet

Overall, we need a way to stay hydrated without abandoning bottles. Our conscious choices are vital when purchasing bottled water. Hydrating with reusable bottles is now much easier and more convenient than we might think, and it’s even kind to your wallet. It’s time to take this daily action one step closer to achieving a greener society.