Plastic Bottles

bottle

Around the world, over a million plastic bottles are sold every minute. According to Refill UK, The average UK household uses 480 plastic bottles a year, but only recycles 270 of them. 

By ditching plastic bottles and opting to use reusable water bottles, we can stop single use plastics at source. There are plenty of options for reusable bottles, with stainless steel bottles currently very popular. See below for the pros and cons of some of the alternatives to plastic bottles. 

#Refuse

Stop selling bottled water and offer a refill service instead. Find out more about Refill Somerset and how you can get involved. 

#Reduce

Reduce plastic bottled drinks and opt for cans or glass bottles instead.

#Reuse

Consider stocking reusable bottles for customers to purchase. 

#Refill

Encourage customers to bring their own bottles to refill – register your business as an official Refill point! 

- Alternatives -

  • Glass Bottles

    Pros:
    Glass bottles are both reusable and recyclable, and good for keeping drinks cool.
    Cons:
    They are more fragile than other materials.
    Suppliers:
    Cheddar Spring Water – glass bottles, The Bottle Co.
    Recycling:
    Glass bottles can be recycled in kerbside collections.

  • Stainless Steel/Aluminium Bottles

    Pros:
    These are extremely durable and are the best for keeping drinks cool for long periods of time. They can also be branded with your logo.
    Cons:
    Can be more expensive than other materials.
    Suppliers:
    One Green Bottle, Moon Bottles
    Recycling:
    Can be recycled at some recycling centres.

  • Boxed Water/Paper Cartons

    Pros:
    Cartons of water can be recycled, and they themselves can be made from recycled materials.
    Cons:
    They must be lined with plastic to make them fit for purpose, and cannot be reused.
    Suppliers:
    Cheddar Water (boxed water), Water in a Box
    Recycling:
    Cartons can be recycled as part of the Recycle More programme in Somerset.

  • Cans

    Pros:
    Cans are fully recyclable.
    Cons:
    Cans are not easy to refill unlike other alternatives mentioned which can be used time and time again.
    Suppliers:
    Water Direct
    Recycling:
    Aluminium cans are easy to recycle.