When you fill a glass from the tap, it is usually the better choice for the climate.
According to German media outlet SWR, bottled water generates significantly more CO₂ emissions than tap water.
This is partly due to the production of bottles and the transportation required to deliver them to stores.
Single-use bottles and heavy glass bottles, in particular, have a greater environmental impact than reusable plastic bottles.
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A noticeable difference for your budget
There is also a clear difference in cost. According to SWR, tap water costs less than €0.05 per litre on average.
Low-cost bottled water costs around €0.20 per litre, while well-known brands are often even more expensive.
For people who drink around 1.5 litres of water per day, this can add up to several hundred euros in extra expenses each year.
Not always the same choice
In some countries, both tap water and mineral water are considered safe to drink.
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For most people, essential minerals can be obtained through a normal and varied diet.
As a result, there is often no need to buy mineral water for that reason alone.
However, SWR notes that mineral water may offer benefits in certain cases. This includes pregnant women, older adults, and people who do not consume dairy products.
In these situations, mineral water with a high calcium content can help meet part of the body's calcium requirements.
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