In ancient times, water was revered as the source of life and often stored in beautiful vessels to reflect that belief. From the clay amphora jars of the Mediterranean, to the more common bronze or copper, to the luxurious glass containers originating in Mesopotamia, cultures around the world needed safe ways to transfer and store water.
Unfortunately, today, most water is kept in detrimental plastic bottles, which have only been in use for around 50 years, not becoming popular and replacing glass until the 1980’s. Before this, water and other beverages were always stored in natural vessels. Metal, wood, and clay were the least expensive and most commonly used materials for water storage. As would be obvious to us today because of their value, silver and gold was reserved for royalty and religious ceremonies. However, glass was also rare and was expensive in ancient times. The process of making glass was labor-intensive, and glass vessels were often seen as luxury items or status symbols. Only the wealthier classes or the elite had access to glass containers for water storage. For the majority of people, pottery and amphoras remained the standard materials for storing everyday liquids. It was not until much later, particularly in the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, that the mass production of glass containers became more widespread and affordable, paving the way for glass to become the dominant material for storing water and other liquids in the modern era.
It can be easy to take glass storage vessels for granted, but they used to be considered precious and luxurious! The earliest evidence of glassmaking is found in Mesopotamia and Egypt, around 3,000 to 2,000 BCE, but glass was initially used for decorative objects and luxury items rather than for everyday functional storage. The first significant use of glass for containers, including for storing water, came later, in the 1st millennium BCE, with advancements in glassmaking techniques. The ancient Egyptians are often credited with some of the earliest innovations in glass production, using a process of fusing sand, plant ash, and other ingredients to create glass-like substances. However, their early glass objects were primarily small items like beads and amulets. It wasn't until the development of glassblowing techniques by the Phoenicians around the 1st century BCE that glass became a more practical and versatile material for creating containers. The process of glassblowing, which involved inflating molten glass into hollow shapes, allowed for the production of glass vessels in a variety of forms, including bottles and jars. These vessels were used for a wide range of purposes, including holding liquids like water, oil, and perfumes.
Glass provided several advantages over earlier materials for storing water. For one, glass is non-porous, unlike clay or terracotta, which allowed for a better seal and kept water fresh for longer periods. The transparent nature of glass also allowed users to see the contents inside, making it easier to assess the quality of the liquid. Moreover, glass was resistant to the corrosion or leaching of flavors and minerals that might occur with metal containers or pottery, thus ensuring that the water remained clean and neutral in taste. The ability to store liquids in glass was particularly important in the Roman Empire, where glass bottles and jars became more common in daily life and for trade.
Unfortunately, by the 1980s, plastic bottles began to replace glass bottles in many consumer products, especially in the beverage industry. The ability to mold plastic into various shapes and sizes made it incredibly versatile and cheaper to produce compared to glass, which was heavier and more expensive to transport. Over time, the convenience and cost-effectiveness of plastic bottles led to their widespread adoption, although the environmental and health impact of plastic would later become a significant concern.
Water is essential for our health, and the container we use to store and drink it can have a surprising impact on both the taste and the quality of our hydration. In recent years, the debate between glass versus plastic bottles has gained attention, with glass emerging as the obvious winner for a variety of reasons. From health concerns to environmental impact, here’s why drinking water from glass is better than plastic.
1. No Chemical Leaching from Glass
One of the most compelling reasons to choose glass over plastic is the absence of harmful chemicals. Plastics, especially when exposed to heat or sunlight, can leach chemicals like bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates into the water. These chemicals have been linked to numerous health issues, including hormone disruption, reproductive problems, and increased risks of certain cancers. Glass, on the other hand, is an inert material, meaning it doesn't interact with its contents. Drinking from glass ensures that the water remains pure and free from harmful contaminants.
2. Better Taste and Purity
Plastic bottles can impart a distinct taste to the water, often described as "plastic-y." This occurs because plastic can absorb and release flavors over time, especially when exposed to heat or stored for extended periods. Glass, being non-porous, doesn't absorb or alter the taste of your water, ensuring that the water you drink remains as fresh and clean as when it was first poured. This is especially important for people who are particular about the quality and taste of their water.
3. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable
Plastic pollution is one of the biggest environmental challenges of our time. Single-use plastic bottles are a major contributor to waste, often ending up in landfills, oceans, and other natural environments, where they can take hundreds of years to decompose. Glass, however, is 100% recyclable and can be recycled indefinitely without losing its quality. By choosing glass bottles, you're helping to reduce plastic waste and support a more sustainable, eco-friendly future. Glass also requires less energy to recycle than producing new plastic, making it a greener choice in the long run.
4. No Risk of Microplastics
In addition to the risks associated with chemical leaching, plastic bottles can break down into tiny particles known as microplastics. These microscopic pieces of plastic can end up in your water, which poses potential health risks. Studies have shown that even bottled water can contain traces of microplastics. Glass bottles, by contrast, pose no such risk, ensuring that you’re drinking water free from these potentially harmful particles.
5. Long-Term Durability
Glass bottles, if handled with care, can last much longer than plastic bottles. Plastic can degrade over time, especially with frequent use and exposure to sunlight, causing it to become brittle and crack. Glass, however, maintains its structural integrity for years, making it a more durable and cost-effective option in the long run. Additionally, glass bottles often have a more premium feel and appearance, which can make your drinking experience more enjoyable.
6. A Healthier Choice for You and the Environment
Choosing glass over plastic benefits both your health and the planet. With concerns about plastic pollution, climate change, and the preservation of natural resources, reducing your reliance on plastic is an easy yet impactful step you can take. Opting for glass also helps decrease the demand for petroleum-based plastic production, further reducing your carbon footprint.
7. Reusability and Ease of Cleaning
Glass bottles are easy to clean and reuse. Unlike plastic, which can harbor bacteria and odors over time, glass is non-porous and resists stains. You can wash glass bottles in the dishwasher or by hand without worrying about it retaining any lingering smells. This makes glass not only a healthier choice but also a more convenient and hygienic one. We sell a bottle brush, that works great for getting inside jugs.
8. Aesthetics and Design
Finally, glass bottles simply look more attractive. They come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and designs, which can make carrying your water around a stylish statement. For those who value aesthetics in their everyday items, glass bottles often have a more elegant, refined feel compared to the utilitarian appearance of plastic.
While plastic water bottles may be convenient, glass offers a healthier, tastier, and more environmentally friendly option for drinking water. Glass doesn’t leach harmful chemicals, it preserves the purity of the water, and it’s far more sustainable for the planet. With the growing concerns about plastic pollution and the rise in reusable glass options, making the switch to glass is an easy and impactful way to improve your hydration habits while contributing to a healthier world.
Alive Water offers the best solutions for collecting, storing, and transporting water. We also offer portable glass water bottles in two different sizes. We recommend getting one of our insulated carrying cases. They come in lots of different colors and different options for straps. Carry your water in glass and remember it is a true luxury that will serve your health and the earth for generations to come.
Written By Dakota Chanel
