A comprehensive global study has uncovered that over 40% of people worldwide are losing confidence in the safety of tap water. This significant revelation highlights an urgent need for action from governments and water authorities globally, according to Bluewater, a leading innovator in water purification technologies.
The findings indicate that more than half of the respondents are sceptical about the purity of their drinking water, citing fears of contamination from various pollutants.
Urgent Need for Government Action
Bengt Rittri, Founder and CEO of Bluewater, expressed grave concerns about the study’s findings. “This alarming revelation underscores the critical need for immediate intervention by governments and water authorities worldwide. Contamination from toxic chemicals, microplastics, and other pollutants poses a serious risk to public health,” Rittri said. He emphasised that the increasing reliance on bottled water, driven by public distrust, has severe environmental consequences, contributing to pollution and waste.
Impact of Single-Use Plastics
The United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health reports the staggering production of over 600 billion single-use plastic bottles each year. The majority of these bottles are not recycled and end up in landfills and oceans, where they release harmful chemicals and degrade into microplastics. A 2023 report titled ‘Hidden Hazards: The Chemical Footprint of a Plastic Bottle’ highlighted that PET plastics could exacerbate the climate crisis, threaten human health, and contribute to environmental racism. This further underscores the urgency of addressing plastic pollution and improving water safety.
Consumer Challenges in Assessing Water Safety
Mr. Rittri highlighted the challenges consumers face in assessing the safety of their water supply. Many harmful contaminants are not visible, smellable, or tasteable, making it difficult for individuals to gauge potential risks. He was particularly astonished by the fact that 39% of respondents in the United States believe drinking tap water poses a serious short-term health risk. This level of concern underscores the need for better transparency and improved water quality measures.
Bluewater’s Mission and Innovations
Since its inception in 2013, Bluewater has been driven by a mission to eliminate the need for single-use plastic bottles. The company has focused on developing advanced water purification technologies that ensure the highest quality of drinking water. In 2024, Bluewater launched several innovative products designed to address these concerns. Among them is a unique kitchen station for residential and commercial use, capable of removing up to 99.7% of contaminants, including toxic PFAS chemicals and microplastics, while enriching the water with essential minerals for enhanced health benefits and taste.
New Public Dispensers
In addition to its residential solutions, Bluewater has introduced the Bluewater Flow range of public water dispensers across Europe. These dispensers are designed for use in various public spaces such as gyms, offices, hospitals, and schools. They also play a crucial role at major events like the British Open, The Ocean Race, and the America’s Cup, as well as at global conferences such as COP 27 and 28. By offering convenient access to purified water, these dispensers contribute to reducing plastic waste and promoting sustainability.
Importance of Pure Water
Mr. Rittri concluded, “Restoring public trust in tap water is essential for combating the plastic bottle crisis. This requires substantial time, effort, and financial investment. Raising awareness of effective solutions like those provided by Bluewater, which enable consumers to purify their tap water at the point of use, is crucial to achieving this goal and ensuring a healthier planet.”
